Vaparaíso begins preparations to avoid millions in damage due to May 21st marches

SANTIAGO.- With only two days remaining before President Michelle Bachelet delivers her third national address, Valparaíso is beginning preparations to face the possible riots outside the National Congress.

After meeting with the President at the La Moneda Governmental Palace, Valparaíso Mayor Aldo Cornejo (DC) reminded people that public disturbances are common on May 21st in the port city  and stated, “I don’t believe this year will be any exception”, especially considering the diverse nature of the groups presenting their petitions.

Cornejo assured that meetings among police and Investigations officials have already been held to detail measures the that will be taken to ensure public order and that, beginning today, urban property will be removed – a measure “that is usually done to avoid the costly damage that has occurred in previous years”.

The mayor explained that trash bins, containers and even traffic lights will be removed from the streets around the National Congress building.

President Bachelet met with Mayor Cornejo after presiding over the Monday policy committee, where she fine-tuned details of the speech she will be giving to the nation at Parliament.