Salcedo returns to normalcy after 24-hour strike over infrastructure demands

A 24-hour strike organized by the Frente Amplio de Lucha Popular (FALPO) and other social movements has concluded in Salcedo, Hermanas Mirabal province, returning the region to normalcy. The protest, which saw significant participation from the commercial sector—with reports indicating between 80% and 90% of businesses closed—was marked by a heavy presence of police and military forces to maintain order.

The demonstrators demanded government action regarding several infrastructure and social issues, including the repair of deteriorating schools, the construction of a bridge to Las Caobas, and the completion of various road projects such as the Palmarito-Salcedo-Cruce de Maguey highway and the Gaspar Hernández-Tenares route. They also called for improvements to sanitation systems in Tenares and asphalt paving in several local sectors.

In response to the strike, the Governor of Hermanas Mirabal, Lissette Nicasio, stated that the government is actively fulfilling its commitments to the province, citing ongoing works in El Corozal, Ojo de Agua, and the Tenares-Salcedo road. While the strike has ended, organizers have warned they may call for a new protest within 15 days if their demands are not met. Local leaders have coordinated meetings with ministers and authorities to discuss the requested works.