Tema: ¿Cómo está el sistema eléctrico del país?.

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Well, we are going to talk about a fundamental issue for the country and one that is obviously of concern to all Ecuadorians, and if not a concern, at least an attention-grabber for the authorities. We begin by telling you that on March 17, 2026, the National Electricity Operator, Senace, asked private companies to turn on their engines and turbines to self-supply due to the drop in generation from Coca-Codo Sincler and the shutdown of some thermoelectric plants. But almost immediately, the Minister of Environment and Energy, Inés Manzano, ruled out electricity outages during 2026. Today we will analyze this issue, and for this, we have the presence of engineers Marcelo Neira, Jaime Abril, and Cristian Alvarado. They are electrical experts and also belong to the College of Electrical and Electronics Engineers of the province of Elasuay. We will start, friends, by welcoming them and greeting them. Engineer Marcelo, good morning, welcome. Thank you for joining us. Good morning, thank you very much for the invitation and for the opportunity to offer an opinion that I hope can be valuable. Thank you for joining us, Engineer Jaime. Good morning. Good morning, dear Hernán. It's a pleasure to be here with you in this studio to resolve any concerns. Thank you for coming early on a Sunday. Cristian, good morning. Thank you for joining us. Welcome. Very good morning. It's a pleasure to be here this day, this morning, to contribute with some technical information that we can share with the citizens of Cuenca. I'll start [sniffle] with you. Uh, Cristian, how do you see this situation? How do you analyze the country's energy situation? The issue is a bit complicated, meaning the purely climatic part has affected the Coca-Codo basin. So, maintenance has also been carried out on units, taking advantage of this context. The Molino plant has had to come into operation and provide backup. In turn, we have to use the water that is actually stored in the Mazar system. So, when compensating, problems begin. The lack of thermal generation complicates things a bit more. [sniffle] If the timely maintenance had not been done when the system required it. Engineer Marcelo, how do you see it initially? Well, the hydrological aspect and the flow rates in the river basins that supply the country's main hydroelectric power plants are indeed very variable and uncertain. Uh, the year 2024, we recall, was one of the driest years in history, and conversely, 2025 was a very rainy year. This year, in the months that have passed, it's really very variable. It used to be a bit more stable, and it was known that October to March are months with low flow rates, especially those reaching the Amalusa and now Mazar reservoirs. And the months from April have traditionally been, in our region, April for water, water, and May until the saying goes, "until the sack rots," as our grandparents used to say. That's right. But now, the climatic issue globally has changed, and it's very uncertain. Uh, the effort made by meteorological and hydrological experts to predict what will happen in the coming days and even hours is truly admirable. Uh, this means that the electrical system must be prepared for all these contingencies that repeat every year with differences in months, and therefore, having backups from other energy sources is fundamental. This means thermoelectric plants, photovoltaic systems that are increasingly competitive now, and also wind projects with biomass, etc., etc. Engineer, how do you see it initially, Jaime? Well, I see that our electrical system is definitely vulnerable. Uh, definitely, with our generation capacity distributed mostly hydraulically, 70% or more, and 30% in thermal generation or a little less, it means that in the instant we don't have a resource like water in one of the highest capacity plants within the entire generation system, our system becomes destabilized. We lose opportunities to generate, and that's where we have to start working and see how we can strengthen and fortify our system, right? While it's true that some measures have been taken in this regard, and there are some projects moving in that direction, from my point of view, future actions with larger capacity projects that will diversify the electricity generation for our system are not being taken. That's basically it. Now, Engineer [clears throat] Cristian, this analysis is almost cyclical every year, right? Because we reach dry months, and one starts to worry: will there be enough energy to cover national demand? According to information from Senace as well, right? Signed by the Ministry of Environment and Energy, some outages have already occurred because this month of March has had peaks that they couldn't cover the existing demand, and simulated or hidden outages have occurred in terms of security, I insist, still not confirmed by the national government. But does this mean that the energy sector didn't do its homework to cover the existing demand and the new demand that increases every year? They did the homework partially. Partially, correct. In this context, maintenance has been carried out on certain thermal plants. There has been the incorporation of new energy. Toach Pilatón, for example, is already in operation. Around 250 MW of thermal energy have been recovered. That's encouraging news. The system, the launch of the 400 MW combined system gives us a very favorable perspective of what's to come. Now, what needs to be reinforced is the non-conventional systems, renewable energy systems, be it photovoltaic or wind. Why? To strengthen during moments like the one we are experiencing. Right now, the coast's temperature has risen. This temperature increase again reflects, obviously, an increase in demand because, really, the coastal society is different from ours. They really need and use, and we should also start touching a bit on the issue of energy efficiency in the matter, because really, what about the "black losses" as they are called. Correct. Really, the system, well, we'll talk a bit more with the colleagues, they also have a lot of knowledge in this case, but I'll focus on two things: energy efficiency and loss control. Energy efficiency directly addresses the issue of consumption that is really wasted, such as electronic systems that are constantly draining the electrical system, and in the What examples would be given to help understand? Computers that are not completely turned off, that are simply put to sleep. Cell phone chargers that work 24 hours a day because they are not unplugged, correct? And it seems like they don't consume. Correct. All of that, if we reach the point of energy efficiency, we will have to review all equipment, all appliances that can be improved, including, as I said, on the coast, air conditioning is a critical issue and it's the system where the largest amount of energy theft occurs. It is already known that bypass systems are generated so that air conditioning systems are not billed, only lighting and outlets. And even that represents the largest consumption on the coast. That is efficiency, and the other is loss, or are those two? Uh, well, one is directly related to the other, but for example, first for efficiency and loss control, it's really the issue of theft, meaning, directly taking from the cable or before the meter, they go directly to the house. Correct, especially those. Well, [laughter] the issue is really, we are different, different issues, we are engineers, but we each see ourselves in different environments. In my case, I really operate a lot on the coast, and I see that daily. Institutions do it well and have their high costs and bills, but the residential issue is surprising to see that some pay the same or even less than here in Cuenca, and with air conditioners and fans, it really doesn't make sense. Of course. So, all of this needs to be controlled so that the energy that is actually delivered to us, dispatched to us, is utilized in the best possible way. But if afterwards, administrative. Yes, that's why, dear Hernán, I go to the most operational point. Each of us has different environments in which we operate, and I really focus on the operational aspect. But that's what I mean, it's an administrative issue for the companies to control that it's not stolen. I mean, it's evident there, right, that it has been a practice, right? Now, I think for many years now. So, that needs to be controlled. Now, Engineer Marcelo, if we talk about the fact that we have 70%, other engineers talk about 80% dependence on hydroelectric power in the Ecuadorian system. They talk about 2025 for thermoelectric power, and of that 2025, only 5% or 10% would be under maintenance and available to contribute, and the rest has not received maintenance. It's even said that over 2,000 MW of thermal generation cannot be utilized because the machines are obsolete, damaged, or it's no longer efficient to turn them on because the fuel cost is higher. So, what could be done there? Uh, indeed, as you mention, there are thermoelectric equipment that is already 40, 50 years old. A nearby example is the El Descanso thermoelectric plant, which, in addition to its technological obsolescence, has suffered several floods that began when La Josefina occurred, and therefore, it's an irrecoverable plant, and I understand it's already out of national statistics because it's impossible to put it back into operation. However, a new thermoelectric plant with diesel combustion engines has been installed to supply that supply point with 20 MW, which is approximately equivalent to the previous plant. But undoubtedly, that plant, which has been a great effort by Cuenca technicians from its design, construction, and even financing, it's important that there is private investment in this field, but it must be duly compensated. Also, the industrialists who make a great effort to keep their generators operational, which are for emergencies, not for 24-hour operation, normally for 4 hours, 6 hours of daily operation. Uh, that then must be supplemented with thermoelectric, photovoltaic generation, etc., that can operate throughout the year, albeit with monthly variations in both wind and photovoltaic, but that they be complementary to hydroelectric. The percentage you mentioned at the beginning is correct. Uh, there have been years where the contribution of hydroelectric power to national electricity demand, viewed over the entire year, which is important, because if you look at a rainy month, obviously there will be more, if you look at a dry month, less, the important thing is a full year, but analyzing so far in 2026, we started as usual in recent years with 20-21% thermoelectric, and now we have been increasing, and we are, let's say, today, so far in the hours of the day, already 26% thermoelectric. We'll have to see the full day for a better view, but to tell you, from March 1st to 26th, it was already 22.3% thermoelectric, so it was a slightly higher percentage than it has been. And of course, as the flow and the level of the Amalusa reservoir, which is the main indicator, although small, for national electricity generation, has decreased in recent days, SENACE and the generating companies are obliged to operate more alternative generation. Unfortunately, we only have a small hourly dispatch, more so because we are interconnected with the Colombian system, we cannot go to zero completely. There are always small exchanges, but there is no formal sale of energy as would be desired, which is something that some people have demonized due to the price Ecuador pays for it, which is understandable because what happens is that when Colombia sells to us, which is a large part of the time, it does so with thermoelectric equipment. In contrast, Colombia buys from us when we have surpluses, which are hydroelectric surpluses. So, it's understandable that what we buy thermoelectric has a higher price than what we sell, which is hydroelectric, when if we don't sell, the water goes over the reservoir. So, even if it's one cent, it's better to sell than to waste water. But I say, it's fundamental that political and commercial issues pass and that this is resumed, which is a good business for both Ecuador and Colombia. And that's true, right? Because, for example, in Colombia, their entire hydraulic system is for them first, and if there's a hydraulic surplus, it goes to Ecuador, but otherwise, most of it is thermoelectric. Thermoelectric means burning fuel, we do the same, meaning we sell when we have a surplus because we don't have thermoelectric to sell. Yes, we do, but not for export, I mean. Ah, we don't have enough. We should have more now. Engineer Jaime, let's not go with Engineer Cristian. Engineer Cristian, projects like, for example, and we've talked about them here on occasion, projects like Cardenillo, which is below Sopladora in the project in the Paute Santiago complex, Project Santiago, which has even been discussed, right? They've told us about wind projects that are important and that could be generated, and that there are even sites for them. Photovoltaic projects, with the sun, right? Yes. That is to say, there are also projects, but they are not developed as demand grows. Demand, we are talking about 8-10% annually that grows in the country. Four, four. How much does that mean? 200 MW, 205, 300 MW. We are talking about 300 MW, and Cardenillo is around 600. We need a Cardenillo a year that should be built, and there are no large projects. And large projects take between 5 and 7 years. I understand some, some much longer. Some even longer, but we haven't started large projects either. So, we are almost almost resigned to San Pedro and whatever can be improved at the system level. The little bit you mentioned. [sniffle] Our mission from the point of view that we support from the College of Engineers is to push these projects. The project even belongs to a colleague who is within, who has been visionary, who is within our college, Ciela, Santiago. So, really, he has always been there, always pushing the project, but now the government also has its part. The government has to try to channel the financing for these projects, and even for some more. I'm going to touch on a small topic that is part of daily life. Ciela has also launched, not launched, but simply supports, for example, the construction of the Soldados project. Soldados no longer falls. Of course, it's a necessary project, and really, but we need a little help from the government, financing to be able to concretize these large projects that contribute. In the case of Soldados, directly to Cuenca, in the case of Santiago, to all of Ecuador. So, Cardenillo, Cardenillo, correct, which should have been built many years ago, right? Because every time there are problems, we have to talk about new power plants, especially these high-power, high-capacity ones. But those are 5 years. As I said, it's much longer due to bureaucracy, it's even longer. At least Santiago is a work, truly a mega-work. What do we do now? First, they haven't even started. Second, what do we do now? Because demand continues to grow. 4, 300 MW. What do we do now? There is a deficit of 1000 MW, even declared by the minister herself that the deficit is 1000 MW at the moment. Of course. For example, for Soldados, in how many years, how many years will construction take? Programmed for 4 years, 5 years. Let's say 4 years. If we talk about 4 years, we are talking about four times 31, 1200 MW, we would have a deficit in 4 years plus what we have, plus what we currently have. So, it becomes a big problem. Barges won't solve it, I don't think, and besides, Soldados no longer falls, being such an important project, but it's 50, meaning it doesn't even cover a third, no, 22, 22. No, we are talking about it not even covering, we are talking about less than a tenth of what is required annually. So, we need big projects, big solutions, or not, Engineer Marcelo? I believe that what the colleague said is very important. We have to add up little by little. And if 20 projects like the multipurpose one are done, and there are none, which in addition to having benefits for the electrical sector, also has them for Cuenca's drinking water and, more importantly, regulates the flow of the Yanuncay River so that it doesn't continue to cause the serious damage it causes each year with its overflows and improves irrigation in that area. These are the projects that best fit, because if there were, I repeat, 20, 50 small projects throughout the country, they also allow for local energy self-sufficiency, so that each region of the country has, at least in part, its own generation. And we don't depend so much on only two or three sites, where if they are affected, the whole country would be affected. The case of Coca Codo Sincler is very critical. Hopefully, the regressive erosion will be contained for a few more years, but if that doesn't happen, a percentage of more than 20% of the energy produced annually in the country, of electrical energy, would be lost. So, we cannot continue, as they say vulgarly, [clears throat] putting all our eggs in the same basket. We are depending only on the Amazonian slope and practically on two rivers, and that is not good. It's preferable to Paute, it's preferable to have 50, 100 small and medium projects in various parts of the country, sorry, [clears throat] rather than one or two large ones practically on the same slopes. But are there possibilities in Ecuador? Of course. Ecuador is very rich in hydroelectric flows, and they can be exploited fundamentally in the Amazonian slope, which is the richest in that regard, but also in small projects in the Pacific zone. [clears throat] In fact, the project on the Jubones River is yielding very good results. There are several small projects. There is another local company that is trying to develop a project in the Girón area, but unfortunately, sometimes people without the proper knowledge and perhaps in good faith, I believe, oppose these types of projects with arguments that are sometimes totally crazy. The other day, someone told me that in the hydroelectric project, there is no longer any. The problem is that the water that passes through the turbines comes out damaged and is no longer useful for irrigation. So, really, these are arguments that people, I say, in good faith believe because someone they trust tells them that. But I believe that all Ecuadorians should contribute to the development of these projects, both hydroelectric, photovoltaic, and of other types. And on the other hand, not expect everything from the government. I believe that the era of statism should be passing, and rather, each of us should make individual and group efforts for projects of this and other characteristics to be developed. So, we need several projects. Of course, we need dozens, hundreds of projects to compensate for that. The very fact of having buildings with terraces, houses with large roofs that easily allow for the installation of photovoltaic systems, and many industries, including local ones, are setting very good examples in this regard. I have seen, for example, at the Nutrien company, a very large photovoltaic system that allows them to almost self-supply, and also a solar thermal system for the steam required by the plant. So, if companies and people, starting from our homes, I live in a multi-family building, in an apartment, if the 40 co-owners there contributed and installed a photovoltaic system on the terrace, which [clears throat] is a useless slab, we would really be contributing to that and we would also benefit economically. It would be cheaper. Now, Engineer Jaime, I have also seen that initiatives are developed, for example, that ultimately do not have much support. Someone told me about the political aspect, but well, I don't want to get into that, I want to remain strictly technical. When Mazar, Molino, and Coca-Cola Sincler were built. When Coca-Cola Sincler was built, they told us they were complementary, meaning when one rained, the other was dry, and thus, obviously, one worked while the other rested, and maintenance was performed, as Engineer Cristian said. But it turns out that with this climate change, neither one is working, neither the Coca River nor the Paute River, and that's when the situation becomes complicated. So, we move on to other projects. But when we want to go to other projects, we find a tariff that is also not what covers the investment made. Added to what Engineer Cristian said, the theft. So, it's not attractive for international or national investment because it won't recover costs. The tariff would have to be raised, but the social cost is very high. So, what is left for us there? To return to what the government of Rafael Correa did, I'm not criticizing, I'm providing information. That is, to build with international loans, increasing external debt. So, we have no other option. Uh, well, indeed, there are options. It's an atomic bomb. Yes, there are, yes, there are options. Uh, uh, the conditions, unfortunately, the climatic conditions that have occurred have put us in this situation, right? While it's true that right now we are barely getting by, let's say, the election, we are getting by now, let's see what happens later, but the deficit is increasing. So, the actions taken, let's say, by the government, speaking of the government, in a way are aimed at seeing what we can do in the future. From my point of view, right? For example, previously it was mentioned that any investor who wanted to invest in a project could do so up to a maximum of 10 MW projects, right? So, now they can do it up to 100 MW. So, these are already important projects that can be done more quickly, not talking about a very large project. Small projects can be done in shorter times, but nevertheless, this is also tied to the tariff, and that's where it's a middle ground, a critical point because no one likes things to be raised, right? But of course, but unfortunately, we must consider that currently we are subsidized, meaning the cost of the kilowatt-hour reaches us at about 9 cents, but that's not the reality, meaning it costs the state much more. There would be perspectives that could be pursued, right? One example is to have a remainder within that tariff to build in the future, meaning to accumulate capital to build those projects, right? And at the same time, leverage with international credits to build the large projects, because when we talk about large projects, we are talking about 3 billion dollars, or let's talk about Cardenillo, we're talking about 13 million, meaning it's not that we're talking about 3000, 4500 million dollars, which really, in the current situation, is difficult to have that capital, right? So, one is that, or the State itself maintains the same line of building the projects and maintaining them, but in some way, it has to start to find a way to put capital to invest in it, right? Or the other is to definitely entrust it to an international investor. But there, the problem is basically two, right? One, and I see it from a governmental perspective, right? Governments, unfortunately, in recent years have been for 4 years or even less. So, that governmental instability doesn't allow for economic stability for any project that is going to be undertaken. So, I understand that the government's current line is to try to present some of these projects that are in their portfolio to international investors to see what the acceptance is, but I think we are at a very low level, let's say, at the beginning or initial stage to concretize any of them. Let's hope that things move forward in that direction, right? But it could happen, for example, that the investor puts, I don't know, 60%, and Ecuador puts 40% perhaps. That is, combined public-private investment without privatization, because if it's privatized, the people will rise up. Public. Yes, indeed, that is the line the government wants to maintain, meaning public-private investment. But as I said, the fundamental issue here is the opportunity, because no one will want to invest in a business of that proportion without guaranteeing their profitability and without guaranteeing their capital recovery within a certain time, right? So, that's the risk we have as a country. I see it from that point of view, the directives that the ministry and the government are now giving, I see that it's about applying that, reaching their project and seeking international investors to try to get the large projects off the ground. There are small projects that are evidently being developed, but now we have the Villanoco project, which is already in phase two execution. So, what is important? In Loja, yes. So, in phase one, they are approximately at 106 MW, now with the new projection and expansion, it's already an important project. We are talking about a little over 100. So, it's a contribution that is significant, just as I agree with what Engineer Marcelo says, that we also need to diversify our systems, right? Not just rely on one side to have a generation point where any situation can occur, right? Starting from the climatic part itself, where they are affected, we don't have the water resource, that plant is affected, and we are left in the middle. So, we have to diversify that part, right? So, there are projects being done at the photovoltaic level, for example, Villanoco, there's the El Aromo project, which is still in its beginnings. There's also an important project within our own area, which is in the San Joaquín area, the PIMO project, which is also about 20 MW that can be generated through photovoltaics, but it requires investment and requires accelerating the steps. So, I don't know if I understand correctly. That is, would you rather support small projects than large projects, or should both be done, diversified, and accessible? Because, as I said, it's difficult to get 3600 million to do one project, right? But however, a project like Soldados, 80 million, 100 million, is more feasible, easier to do, right? To execute. And if we can do Soldados, and a Calle is a project of approximately 20 MW, it's fundamental, it's important for the city, but it's not the solution to the energy problem. That's what I meant, please. No, it's not the specific solution, right? But if we have 20 or 10 of those specific ones, we're already talking about 200 MW, right? So, we have half a project, but it needs to be done every year. It needs to be done every year, unfortunately, just as Cristian said, we haven't been doing the homework. In fact, since 2016, we have postponed what we had to do, and we have been kicking the can down the road, saying, "We're fine now, let's keep delaying," and that's how we've come to where we are now, right? Currently, we are barely getting by from here to a year, but now depending on how this year goes, what the engineer said and what we discussed before, right? 2024 was dry, 160 days of hydrological drought, what Tapa said, it rained in 2024, April 1, 2, and 3, and it stopped raining in May until the saying goes, it only rained on May 4th and some small sporadic drizzles, and it didn't rain anymore, and 2025, it didn't stop raining. In contrast. Now it might be that we are starting again with a dry year. We don't know what the engineer also said. No, no, no, no, we don't have a magic ball, but, so, if this continues, it could get complicated. Effectively, yes. So, we have a somewhat dark outlook if immediate actions are not taken. So, but we say barges. The barges also, we can't put 20 barges because we don't have a point where we can evacuate, where we can evacuate our energy. We have substations to which the barges are already connected, the three barges we have available. It's mentioned that now one of the emergency points the government has to try to solve the deficit is to get a new barge, right? But we will reach a point where those barges that generate energy have to be injected, but we no longer have the capacity to inject energy either, right? So, we have to look at it from another perspective. Unfortunately, I'm going to say something that many people won't like, right? I think we will have to beg Colombia, "Hey, give us 400 MW because without that, we won't be able to get through." The capacity is 450, if I'm not mistaken, out of 20, meaning, we can't sell more than 450 according to the connection between us and Colombia. And with Peru, we have 90. Am I right? No, with Peru, we still don't have anything. No, I'll go first with Engineer Cristian, then with you, Engineer Neira, uh, you know, on the topic of rain, for example, Coca-Codo Sincler, they tell us it was for 100 and that it has very rarely generated 15, but the average has been low due to the problems we've already indicated, the erosion in that area, the regressive erosion that only contributed 700-800, but now it's at 300 and 400 due to the lack of water. Yes. So, we return to what Engineer Jaime says, we have no other option but to go to Colombia to try to cover the demand. It's not that it will be the solution either, or that it might even be lacking. Initially, what should be done is that the political issue becomes a reality, that the negotiations that need to be made become effective. The issue of the disagreement between the two governments is really beyond our control. They just need to give way. The Colombian government is available, willing to carry out the necessary transactions with Ecuador, but there is also a lack of political will from our own country. If you allow me, and it's a very, very specific issue I want to tell you before the idea you were discussing with Jaime slips away, there is a project, there is a project idea with Engineer Fabián Jaramillo where, if the government cannot finance a work, why can't we finance it? Who? We, the citizens, the citizens. In a project where individual capitals can be incorporated and added up to say, "I was even projected for the Santiago plant, one of the largest, but the project is ambitious." I leave you with the thought, Engineer Fabián Jaramillo. It would be worth considering, right? But let society manage it, because if the government manages it, forget it. Correct. So, the idea, the idea remained with everyone when we met, when the project was presented. It's interesting, it's anecdotal, it could be done, it could break from the conventional, and it could start to provide solutions, where individual contributions, more or less like a cooperative, meaning all citizens contribute to it. That's where the first obstacle came from, interesting. That's where the first obstacle came from, because the legal figure is what needs to stand out. Exactly. A new law would have to be made. There was even contact with cooperatives. The engineer has it quite advanced. I leave you that name so that at some point, perhaps you can invite him, Engineer. With pleasure. Now, what you were saying is the issue of Colombia, and you were saying the issue of Colombia. This data, according to El Universo, says, "It assures that it is ready to sell energy to Ecuador and that everything depends on the government of Daniel Novó." And of course, someone told me, "How good are the Colombians?" No, it's not like that, because in Colombia, the private sector prevails in thermal investment. In Colombia, it means that if they sell to us, the Colombian private sector would profit. Obviously, they are interested in selling quickly, whenever they want, because they have the economic part, and the more expensive economic part is obviously a business for them, but Colombia cannot sell, even if it's private, to another country in the case of Ecuador, without government approval. That's how it works, as far as I know. So, there is no other option. That is, we have to seek this energy, yes or yes, because if not, we will... Now, we are getting by, I think, just barely, or if there is still, it is necessary, and it has always been necessary, until many years ago, that Ecuador [clears throat] was autonomous, it really had the capacity to self-supply, but at this moment it does not, and it is necessary. Of course. Now, Engineer Neira, Vera, uh, uh, I am very curious about the research on the Mazar Dam. The Mazar Dam is currently at 2,148.83 meters, and its maximum capacity is 2,153. The Mazar reservoir, we are talking about it being 7.310 meters below. But of course, you will say, "No, 10 meters is very little." The problem is that the lower the reservoir level, the less water there is because it's narrower at the bottom. So, the situation becomes complicated. Why? Because in these last few days, according to production, they have been working almost all day at 100% capacity of Mazar, Molino, Sopladora to supply the problems of Coca-Codo Sincler and the complications with the other small projects. So, we are in an emergency. We are just at March 29th, and April and May are still to come, depending on whether it rains or not. The ministry says it will rain. On the other hand, others say, "You can't look more than 3 days ahead for hydrological forecasts." It could get complicated. That's right. First, if you allow me to complement what my colleague Giovanni said, which I also share the initiative of my colleague and friend Fabián Jaramillo. He proposed that several citizens, thousands of citizens, contribute a few thousand dollars, which is not a big deal for many people, and even large companies could contribute much more, and with that, raise capital to build important hydroelectric projects. This is in line with what I said before, let's not keep waiting for everything from the governments because we won't get out of this rut. But that complements what you were mentioning. If we continue to depend only on the Paute River and Coca Codo Sincler, we will really have no way out. We have to develop other projects in other basins and with other energy sources, and that will allow us to have greater security in the future. You rightly mentioned, hopefully April and May, at least here where it has been traditional, it will rain. But there are other contributors. For example, Palmira, which comes from the Chimborazo region, has a different hydrological period. Moreover, the largest flow that reaches the power plants of the Paute River is in July, when here in Cuenca, it is not a typically rainy month. Why? Because the other contributions are those that come from the province of Cañar, those that come from the Santa Bárbara River from Sigic, Chordeleg, Gualao, and other contributors who are in the area further east. Yesterday, I'll just interrupt you, engineer, yesterday I was passing by, looking at the Santa Bárbara River, you can already see stones, it's dry. Exactly. Please continue. Yes. The other issue that I believe can help us, especially thinking about the next dry season, which should approximately begin in October of this year, we are not talking about the distant future. In October, if there is a new dry period that would last until March 2027, how are we going to supply when demand continues to rise? Of course. So, what Giovanni mentioned about energy losses, energy efficiency, what we have said about private contributions with new generation, citizen awareness in the efficient use of energy, and a fundamental project that would be a better periodic contribution is the electrical interconnection with Peru. That project has financing. I know that unfortunately, one of the contracting processes has failed, but I believe it should be promoted so that, if not for this year, for next year it is ready. But there is no connection to Colombia, to Peru, I mean. It's a very weak interconnection, yes, but it's a very weak interconnection that is not permanent. One part has to be disconnected.

The province of Oro and connect it to Peru or vice versa, disconnect a part of Tumbes and connect it to Ecuador. It is not like Colombia where we work what is called in synchronism. It is like a tandem, two locomotives going together. In contrast, with Peru, it is disconnected on one side to connect a small piece of the other, but the 500,000 V interconnection that is designed and financed, hopefully it will be built, it is not more than a year, a year and a half, let's say, 2 years exaggerating, that one will allow it because the hydrology in Peru is complementary to that of Ecuador. It is not like with Colombia where the dry and rainy months are the same. In contrast, in Peru they have more flow when we have low flow here, and also Peru has great, uh, production with natural gas, which unfortunately Ecuador does not have. So these are important advantages of interconnection, and the other is to unblock projects that are already authorized. There are projects from 3 years ago that are authorized for private companies to develop, but they cannot start due to a series of circumstances, and especially what you well mentioned and complemented, Jaime, is that the business does not pay, meaning the cheese is not enough for everyone, and so companies say, "Okay, even if they pay me cheaply, what I want is to be paid." Of course. And if SENEL, being a public company, does not pay CELEC, which is a public company, how do I ensure that they will pay me, who am I, a private individual? So that part is critical, and as my colleagues said, the government has to find ways. I understand there is a credit from some international financial entity to leverage a certain security system so that private individuals, if they do not collect 100% of the electricity system, have this backing of this insurance from this international entity. So I think that with these two activities, [clears throat] the interconnection with Peru and unblocking the projects that are already authorized, like the photovoltaic aromo itself, which is a relatively large and important project due to its location in the coastal area, and others of that nature would be fundamental to get out of this critical situation that has already lasted so many years. Now, on the subject, Engineer Cristian, the subject is political, right? I know you are not politicians, you are technicians, but if politics does not solve these problems like theft, black losses, if it does not solve the issue of tariffs or subsidies, seriously, the situation can get complicated this year. I don't know if we will advance, I don't want to be pessimistic, I want to be optimistic, but the reality is not that pleasant nor what one would expect to know, right? It is not what one expects, but if that political part does not work well, we are not only talking about the president, we are talking about the president and assembly members, all authorities, even what you say, even society itself, if we do not act, the situation can get complicated. very much, and this year we are coming out from the point of view of the college, we push, we support the small and medium-sized projects, speaking in terms of power, right? And of time, uh, that they are executed as soon as possible. Obviously, we also work on large projects that demand a lot of time and resources. We are always as a college, uh, trying to push all projects simultaneously so that everything is for the benefit and increases. The sum of small, small contributions will allow us to do this. For now, the reality is not encouraging. We really have to prioritize the issue of interconnection with Colombia. Afterwards, work on the small projects, try to get them moving as soon as possible. These are projects that can be executed, uh, quickly, more agilely, and give good results. Uh, and afterwards, and at the same time, we immediately have to work on energy efficiency. That is what really, but for everything, forgive me, I don't know if I'm mistaken, but for everything, money. Correct. And everything comes from above. Now, in this case, and I will give a personal opinion, the government is hiring Ecaustro Barcasas. Since when has Caustro been hiring barges? That can break it economically, the situation is quite complicated. Yes, but we are there. Uh, we even have our representatives who are members of the current board, who constantly keep us informed about how the projects are being executed, how they are working from the government's side to try to alleviate the deficit and the energy problem that [clears throat] we have today. Engineer Jaime. So, we are concluding a bit due to time. Uh, are we getting out of this this year or not? As [laughter] the previous [clears throat] minister once said, we depend on God. We depend on God. In the current circumstances, we depend on God. Yes, and on Saint Peter. Let's hope that the meteorological conditions, if they do not increase, at least remain the same so that we can get through the difficult patch, let's say, because if we do not have those 400 megawatts that Colombia was providing us, we will have problems. According to the meteorological perspective we have, they are not good, so we will not enter a period of relief. Let's hope we are wrong, that this is not the case. Hopefully so. Hopefully so. Hopefully that is the case. I agree with you because there are no immediate actions. Efforts have been made even at the private level, as Engineer Marcelo mentioned, there are important projects that have been done at the private level, here and in other regions as well, in which there are already investments of even half a megawatt, meaning to talk about half a megawatt in a private self-consumption is already important because what it implies is that this factory disconnected from the system and that energy is no longer being supplied to other users, right? So, I see it as difficult if important actions are not taken, right? Important actions also, as Cristian says, is good, the issue of recovering losses, right? It is very important to talk about the fact that in certain companies we have that 20% is lost, that is quite a lot, right? And let's talk about the fact that this is in the largest electricity companies, let's talk about SENEL, which comprises all the electricity companies on the coast. So, I think reactions should start to be taken there. From the National College, there was a very interesting initiative that was launched at the last meeting they had, in which they even said that the problem is economic, there are no resources in the electricity companies to develop their portfolio recovery projects, as they are called, but nevertheless, it was mentioned that a scheme could be made based on the results obtained, right? So, there is a supplier who invests and based on his investment, he recovers it and is paid based on the recovery. It is an IDEX that has been proposed, it has been structured, yes, but it can work to recover some of the losses we have, some of the energy losses, from that point of view as well. Let's see. So far, Engineer Neira, we have water and we depend on it. Otherwise, Saint Peter, God, what else was it? Saint Peter, God, you said something else. I forgot. I think it also depends a lot on each citizen that we become aware of efficient energy use and as my colleagues mentioned, if the national average losses have unfortunately increased in recent years, even though a fairly reasonable level was reached about 6 or 8 years ago, then that recovery, let's say that 10% of the losses are recovered or reduced. That is the reserve the country needs to get out of any of these critical situations. So, while this requires investment, it is more about decision, and if we achieve citizen awareness, it would not require any investment. That's a good point. God, Saint Peter. It was God, Saint Peter, Colombia, and the classroom. Could that be it? Adding those three actions, which is something we can do with what we have for the moment, right? Immediately, if this drought obviously continues because it seems it will continue, and even if it rains, I think it's already solved with God and Saint Peter, but we shouldn't let our guard down because now it's solved. I know that, but listen, engineer, well, I'll go with you, engineer, I'll conclude with you, Engineer Cristo, but every year we are here talking about exactly the same thing. When Cardení? When Santiago? When the small projects? When? I mean, we are barely getting by and depending, and seriously, on Saint Peter because [clears throat] we fill the Mazar reservoir and it's like it's done, and it's not like that, because we fill Mazar and then it stops raining in Coca, in the Coca River that goes to Coca-Cola Sinclair, it's screwed. What do we do? How to finish? How many of us are left with the four things? The three, because God already sends Saint Peter. Yes, [laughter] the panorama is indeed complicated. It is complicated at the moment as we are, it is indeed our reality. Uh, prioritize, prioritize, the interconnection with Colombia is really necessary. Yes, that's a fact, no one can deny that. Of course. Yes. Then, the issue of what has not been executed, we cannot say let's leave it there because insistence and pressure on professionals continues. I agree with you, professionals are pressured, they tell us, "Why don't you do it?" It's not in our hands. The fact that we are registered professionals does not mean we can go to the government and say, they have neither the policy nor the government. Correct. So, but those small contributions that come from today, from the strategic positions we have today of representation, those can also be a point that supports, supports so that the government once and for all makes the necessary investments to execute projects of magnitude, of great magnitude, which are necessary. We cannot keep postponing, postponing because every year again, as you say, we will be sitting here with the same thing and the same thing, and we don't see, perhaps next month, [clears throat] next year, it won't be in March, it will be in April, because climate change doesn't give us the option to have anything fixed. Listen, and nuclear energy, what do you think? Anyone. No, we are prepared. I think for that, it's better. My point of view is this, right? We have a hydroelectric potential with which we can develop projects and we don't need it, and we already have something planned, meaning we have studies, we have developments already done. So, why go for another solution when we already have something closer to doing it, right? Because I think that a nuclear system for electricity generation, listen, we wouldn't be ready for it for another 10, 12 years. So, I think we would have something much closer than what we already have planned. Difficult. There is, I don't know if you know, there is a nuclear generation in New York that is already out of use, on the Hudson River. They said it is no longer functioning, it is shut down, but if it were to explode, it would destroy at least New York and New Jersey. So, the matter is very serious and it must be built next to a river. [sighs] That's what I understand. Well, having enough water for cooling is fundamental. Uh, but yes, I agree with my colleagues, nothing should be ruled out, we must continue studying, analyzing options for the future, but I think that with Ecuador having so much hydroelectric, solar, and wind resources, we don't need biomass. Yes, as demand grows, it may be that. Technological development in small modular reactors is becoming very important, it greatly improves safety, there are a series of advantages compared to traditional technology, but I think for Ecuador, for the current situation, it is not yet the time. Thank you very much. Thank you. One always learns. Thank you. Thank you to the engineers, Engineer Marcelo Neira, Jaime Abril, and Cristian Alvarado. We will take a break and return with the news, friends. Thank you for joining us. Thank you. The voice of Tomebamba is born from all [music] voices. Start of advertising space. Study integral aesthetics in Cuenca and have your degree recognized in the United States. At ITEC Instituto Superior, it is already a reality. Our graduates are obtaining the equivalence of their third-level degree to work and start businesses in the United States as well. At ITEC, we train professionals in integral aesthetics with a third-level degree recognized by the Council of Higher Education. Practical technical training with solid theoretical foundations. ITEC, your talent has no borders. Visit us in Cuenca. Contact us at 099 851 5131 or find us on social media as Itec Instituto Superior. Did you miss your university spot? 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Because true information is born from all voices where we are all protagonists. You are our voice and truth. And here the essence of expressing oneself is sublime. That is why the voice of Tomebamba is born from all voices. Presenting the Sunday Bulletin. These are the most important events of the weekend, focused by the team of communicators from Radio La Voz del Tomebamba. Sunday Bulletin. The daily struggle, social achievements and advances, the transcendental events that are discussed and analyzed are reported on the radio that is born from all voices. The voice of Tomebamba. [music] [music] [music] Friends of La Voz del Tomebamba, it is 8:38 AM. Thank you for joining us on this Sunday, March 29, 2026. Thank you for being with us, accompanying us. Well, we are ready to present the most important news that has been generated in the last few hours. Today, 33 years ago, today, 33 years ago, we woke up to one of the most difficult news in the history of the city of Cuenca, when it was reported that there was a landslide in the Josefina sector 33 years ago. And well, there was impressive rain in the city of Cuenca, and after that, it was known that the Josefina mountain came down and blocked the Cuenca River. Today marks 33 years since that day, and it reminds us, and Dr. Fernando Figueroa sends us an image. We send him a special greeting, remembering this day that undoubtedly changed the routine of the people of Cuenca, of Ecuadorians, when the river began to rise with a great flow and threatened to reach the cathedral of the city of Cuenca. And on May 1st of that same year, there was the release that affected a large part, for example, of the lower area of the canton of Paute. The biggest disaster there, around 60 people were buried who lived in the area, and that changed the entire panorama. Today, 33 years ago, that is what Dr. Fernando Figueroa tells us. Well, we will also present some other news. First, we greet Paz. Paz. Good morning, Hernán. Good morning, and good morning, friends. We are starting with sunshine finally after so much rain yesterday. Yesterday was a rain. The situation is strange, right? We will analyze it in depth, but on Wednesday it rained in Ricaurte. On Thursday, on Friday it rained in the central area, and yesterday in other areas, but with hail and a large amount of water, which we will detail. Let's start by indicating that a race is taking place in the city of Cuenca, the Warm Runner, which is covering some streets of the city of Cuenca, and there have been no complications so far in terms of organization and the development of this race. Where is the route? Which streets are they? It's 5:10, friends. L Pente Roto, Pumapo Museum, Guainacapac, Parque de la Madre, 12 de Abril Avenue, and Puente del Bado. Uh, there are people doing one lap for 5 km and two laps for 10 km. Yes, that's the Warm Runy. So, it's taking place today in the city of Cuenca, and there are a good number of people, women, who are running because it's Warmir Unir. Women, look, a good number. This is sent by the Citizen Security Council, this image that is monitoring this race. The t-shirt this year is nice. Yes, pretty. Yes, that's the route. So, keep it in mind, some streets in the city of Cuenca are closed. If you want to go out, wait a few more minutes, although it is scheduled until around 11 AM, according to what we have planned. We are looking for detailed information, but they haven't posted it. The streets will be open in about 2 hours. That's good. That's it, friends, regarding this race taking place in the city of Cuenca. But we also want to indicate that the prefecture of Suaya sent us a photograph a few minutes ago indicating that the road to the Valley is now open. Good that they sent the information, which they sent us just a few minutes ago. Road to the Valley is open. This morning, rehabilitation work in the parish center concluded after the sinkhole. The joint intervention between the prefecture of SUAY, the Mayor's Office of Cuenca, Etapa EP, and the GAD Parroquial El Valle allowed for the immediate restoration of the sewage system and road structure. Vehicle circulation is now operational. Thank you for your understanding during this 24/7 work day. That's good. Let me congratulate Etapa, the municipality of Cuenca, and the prefecture of Suay. They did a spectacular job, very good technically and in terms of response. They worked all night. They worked without rest. The authorities did not. They were sleeping well, the workers, they worked without rest. That's good, they deserve congratulations. Yes, just as we criticize, we must also congratulate. Very good job. Etapa, Mayor's Office of Cuenca, and the prefecture of Suay. That happened yesterday, a sinkhole and a pipe burst, causing [clears throat] this landslide, and obviously, they started working immediately. And that's good, that must be recognized. Uh, what did Etapa say? Etapa concluded the replacement work at 2 AM and posted this photograph among others. What did Etapa say? As of 12:30 PM today, Sunday, March 29th. Etapa reports that it has concluded its responsibilities in the sector affected by the sinkhole in the El Valle parish. As part of an articulated intervention with the prefecture of SUA, MBP, and the Directorate of Risk Management. The intervention allowed for the recovery of approximately 6 meters of sewage collector, restoring operability in the system. At this point, the prefecture of SUAY is currently on site with replacement material and continues with the road rehabilitation work, which is expected to be open in the coming hours. It is recommended that citizens drive with caution in the sector, obviously, because it is a road that has just been opened. Ah. Uh, what time did they write this? At 12:30 AM. 12:30. So Etapa concluded and said, "Well, now it's in the hands of the prefecture of Sue." And the prefecture of Sue has just informed that they have concluded, but Jorge Washington is reporting, says the problem, Jorge Willington, sorry, Jorge Willington says, "The problem is more complicated, the other lane is more sunken." That's what we are alerting the company Etapa, the company, the municipality, the prefecture to review. It is now open. I insist, it's good work by the laborers. Uh, it was immediate, and when they work jointly, articulated, see, there are the results. It was a large sinkhole, and it's important that it be recognized. Similarly, we remind citizens to [clears throat] drive with caution because the lane is slightly sunken. And also, the material is obviously not asphalt, it's just for driving, for example. So, slow down because obviously to avoid any issues, but you can drive on that road. So, drive carefully, we recommend that. Well, and yesterday, what a downpour, right? What a downpour that fell on the city of Cuenca. Well, we weren't here. You were here, right? I think the sky was falling, right? More than 10 years ago I haven't seen hail of this magnitude. The streets were full of hail, but only in one area, right? It's not, it's strange, right? Because it's been raining in parts of the city of Cuenca in recent days. What did Etapa report regarding this? This is initial information, right? Look at the magnitude, but I insist, it's raining in parts, first in Ricorte, then in the center, now in the area, we could say the southeast of the city, southwest of the city of Cuenca, sorry. But Etapa reported the following yesterday regarding this issue, and it's quite striking. Pay attention to what we are going to say. Due to the intense rains recorded on Saturday afternoon, March 28th, accumulations exceeding 35 mm in less than an hour caused localized flooding, water accumulation, and hail in several sectors of the city, especially in the northern area. This high concentration of precipitation in a short time causes the saturation of the drainage system, which hinders the immediate evacuation of rainwater. In view of this situation, Etapa personnel are attending to emergencies by cleaning drains and sewers, unblocking domestic connections, removing hail in areas such as the tram lane. Interventions to facilitate drainage and circulation. According to the monitoring of the hydrometeorological network, the rivers show slight variations and remain in a normal state. Citizens are asked to avoid throwing garbage in the streets. Please, friends, and drains, and report any issues with services at 188. Well, what a downpour yesterday, yes, a downpour, some streets completely white, completely. Look at these videos, for those friends who are following us on social media, the videos show the amount of ice and water that fell in one area of the city of Cuenca, and it wasn't in the whole, the whole, and the hail, the ice balls, super big, 35 mm as it said. This is the video you recorded, right? The information, more or less near Loja, near Bosco. Around there. Well, look at the ice. What a lot of ice fell, and on the whole street. Yes, all that was needed was to add some coloring, sugar, and make a granita. The granita was ready. Someone told me, "Okay, take away New York, just stay here." Here, so that our friends on social media can hear us. Look, impressive, impressive. A rain and hail that some vehicles, some drivers, preferred to park and not continue because they said it was too dangerous, even with the lights on. Some turned on their lights so they would be seen and not hit, and also not hit another vehicle, because the sky darkened in that area, in some areas of the southwest of the city of Cuenca. They parked. Let's see another video. Look here, in contrast, how the water is in the streets, practically overflowing with water. And the hail too, the streets practically turned into rivers, they turned into rivers, and that, obviously, happened yesterday in the city of Cuenca. Yes. And after that, the work of the Etapa workers began, who had a lot of work yesterday, the issue of unblocking the sewage system in some areas, and also the issue of the sinkhole. Yes, yesterday, for example, in some places Etapa was intervening after this gigantic rain that fell. Someone told me, it was like a deluge, right? A deluge that fell on the city of Cuenca. It's a lot of rain. What did Etapa say about the work of the employees, the laborers? Due to the collapse of a section of the road in the El Valle parish, an affected sewage pipe has been identified, which prompted immediate intervention in the sector. The company's technical personnel are on site carrying out evacuation and repair work, which includes replacing a 900 mm pipe with an estimated intervention time of approximately 5 hours. These actions are being carried out in an articulated manner with the MBP, the Directorate of Risk Management, and the Prefecture of Asuai within the scope of their responsibilities to guarantee the recovery of infrastructure and road safety. It is recommended that citizens exercise extreme caution when traveling through the area due to the current road conditions. That's what Etapa said, but yesterday, Etapa worked a lot, right? And that must be recognized. We never have a problem congratulating when things are done well and complaining when they are done poorly. There were also some tasks of draining and cleaning manholes, right? In response, yes, to the intense rains recorded, the operational personnel are carrying out draining and cleaning of manholes in Agustín Cueva and Gonzalo Cordero streets. This is reported by Etapa. Ah. These actions allow for the evacuation of accumulated water and the prevention of affectations in the area, contributing to the proper functioning of the drainage system. Citizens are reminded once again to avoid throwing garbage in the public road and to report any issues with services at 188, 188. Well, that's what was reported yesterday. Even the mayor went to these places to inform about the situation, which was very, very complicated regarding the hail. Well, yesterday he made a video, I don't know if it's live, but it seems to be, now let's listen to what he said about the hail. Well, brutal hail fell here in Cuenca. I'm going to show you because it's been a while since we've seen that. Look, at the entrance to this condominium, it's already being removed. And here in the park too, well, and in the streets and everything, it's completely like snow. Look. This, when before we are stepping on ice like this, it's going to get me wet. We are having a lot of rain in Cuenca, so well, all the teams are deployed to where it flooded to attend to it soon. A hug. Well, that's what the mayor of the city of Cuenca said regarding this situation, and well, a lot of videos were shown of this incredible rain that fell on the city of Cuenca. Even at the Bado, at the Bado bridge, you could see how the water was almost, well, it was dammed and pooled. Well, let's remove the mayor from the screen, and we'll put up the video of how it was at the Bado bridge. How it was at the Bado bridge. We'll put it up. Here it is. I found it again. I just lost it again. Here it is. They sent it. Look here how it was on November 3rd, and the road up to [music] practically, the whole road was practically flooded. [singing][music] flooded, more than the level of the river, the water rose to the, so you can see the [singing] No, that's not it, it's the amount of rain. Even, excuse me, Hernán, you could see the hail accumulated on the roofs of the houses. It was impressive. And also, the issue is that, for example, the sewage system was designed for rain, but not such extraordinary rain. Now, with this climate change, it's raining, imagine, 30 and how much was it, 33 or 35, 35 mm. 35 mm per square meter. We are talking about spectacular rain, but only in one area of Cuenca. And someone told me, "Okay, with that we'll fix the issue of the flow rates." No, it doesn't fix it. It has to rain in the highlands, it has to rain where the rivers originate, in the Cajas massif, it has to rain permanently, but these short rains only increase the flow slightly and then it goes down again. The rivers are dry. Of course, the help is slight, very slight, and almost imperceptible. We will see how the Mazar reservoir is, although we have already reported on it a little, 2143 meters above sea level. Well, however, yesterday, despite the citizens' concern about this hail, you could also see children playing with the hail in the parks. What happiness. But there, I agree with you, to have fun. What happiness. We always find something positive in these types of climates. Yes. A very, very strange climate, right? The climate is also strange. I don't know what's wrong with it, right? Yesterday, for example, I don't know, I think it rained, someone told me it's clouds that move to the city of Cuenca, but they pass, for example, through several places, depending on where they enter, right? It's entering through the Mendez basin, through the Paute basin, it comes from there and doesn't stay in any of those places, and it reaches us and stops in some part of the city of Cuenca and unloads, but in large quantities, and in other areas, nothing. In some areas of Cuenca, it didn't rain at all or very little, and in others, a truly impressive rain broke out. That's on one hand. On the other hand, for example, the waters are not entering through Morona Santiago. In CIS, yesterday it was extremely hot, it didn't rain at all. Like today, intense sun in the morning, and yesterday we had very strong hail. The Santa Bárbara River was almost showing its stones. You could easily cross the river, of course, getting a little wet, but you could cross. That river is impossible when there is a high flow. Then, the river that flows down from Azogues, the Burgay, very little water. We saw it yesterday. And the Paute River, how was it, my dear Paute? Sunshine. Yesterday, yesterday Edy was in Paute. Sunshine and the river was very, very low. So, the reality that is being lived. How are we for today? They will ask me how we are for the weather today. It is currently 14ºC and according to the forecasts, there is zero possibility of rain today. Zero. The ultraviolet radiation at noon will be 10 points. Be very careful. That is, the sun will be very, very intense in the morning, and until 4 PM, we recommend using sunscreen. The three stations that measure air quality in the city of Cuenca at the moment are: 23 in the historic center, 31 in the industrial park, and three in the southern control. That is, the air quality is very good, very good, sorry. And at the moment, we have an ultraviolet radiation index of four points, but at noon, it will be between 10 and 11 points. Let's keep these details in mind. Well, we are going to a commercial break now. We will return. [music] The voice of Tomepamba. Start of commercial break. We are celebrating 18 [music] years and we celebrate with you at Cálido. Yes. Come to Cálido Mol del Río and get blankets, cushions, sheets, and more of superior quality and at prices you will never see again. With up to 50% discount from March 26th to 29th on selected merchandise. 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La Europea knows a lot, knows well. Hello, I need to schedule an appointment with the pediatrician. One minute, please. At Montesinaí, we understand that your time is valuable, which is why we offer you an easy and fast option. Now you can schedule your medical appointment through our website. Go to www.hospitalmontesinaí.org. Click on schedule your appointment, and that's it. Select from over 400 specialists and choose the time that best suits you. Remember www.hospitalmontesinaí.org. Your appointment is just a click away. Did you know that your work experience can boost your university education? At Universidad de Cotec, access 100% online programs with live and recorded classes, academic support, and international instructors. Study from wherever you are with flexible schedules and university accreditation recognized by CES. It's your moment. Apply for your online scholarship. Explore, lead, transform. Hey, hello, do you want a house? With Mutualistas, you can have your house or apartment. Interest rate of 7.49% and 20-year term. Stop renting and start living in your own home. Come to Mutualista SU today or find us on social media and apply for your loan. Promotional rate for a limited time. [music] Conditions apply. [singing] The voice of Tome Pamba. End of commercial break. [music] Well, let's continue, friends. Let's continue, friends, here on La Voz del Tomebamba. It is 9:05 AM. 9:05 AM. Radio La Voz del Tomebamba is reporting. Thank you for joining us. We have an accident. We have an accident that was reported a few minutes ago. That's right, friends. At 2:08 AM today, an alert was registered through the Single Emergency Line 911 for a traffic accident in the Vergel bridge sector, Guainacapac and 12 de Abril avenues. It involves a perpendicular lateral collision and impact between two vehicles that affected the bridge structure, a pole, and public lighting. Under the coordination of EC911 Austro, health resources, Suay Red Cross, Cuenca firefighters, Inés, Inés, MBP, and the electric company assisted. Four people were injured, stabilized, and transferred to a health facility. Public works personnel from the electric company inspected the infrastructure damage. Once again, the car completely destroyed. Totally destroyed. Mm. That's what we were looking at. M. Every week, I worry more about these types of accidents on weekends, and the cars are increasingly destroyed. Yes, yes, it's terrible. Practically, this vehicle is now scrap metal, especially the front part, right? It's totally destroyed. Totally destroyed. Well, friends, we are being reported, uh, some problems with the JEP votes. We will [clears throat] do the corresponding investigation regarding this issue and we will keep you informed regarding this situation. Atarquila Bolívar has problems, they tell us. We will look into this information, friends, to share it with you. What do we have in headlines? Friends, let's start with headlines. El Mercurio, how will the El Niño phenomenon force early elections? Based on the report from the National Secretariat for Risk Management, which warns about the presence of rains. The women murdered at the bus terminal in Azogues were also identified in this way. Monsignor Marcos Pérez, let's be aware of what Holy Week means. Expreso Caso Villasis. A ruling can be unenforceable, as Minister Burbano says. Three experts analyze the minister's argument about the sentence in favor of the judiciary alternate, Alexandra Villacís. ADN will also make a second attempt to approve laws on social housing and land use. This week, both laws returned to their commissions. The final report on the reform of the land law was approved today. El Universo. We continue, friends. On the penultimate day of the curfew, police implemented actions in Trinidad Sur, Malvinas, Norte, and Estéreos. The measure began on March 15th and will end on Monday, the 30th, at 5 AM. Primicias. The north of Quito, a focus of crime, will concentrate a greater deployment of operational command posts this 2026. Between January 1st and March 21st, 2026, the metropolitan district registered, and listen, friends, 2,580 reports of robberies, a 26% reduction compared to the same period in 2025. This has improved, but homicides are on the rise. The municipality will install 22 operational command posts by June 2026. Sociedad also tells us, "Holy Week begins, the transmission of the Palm Sunday Mass by Pope Leo XIV from the Vatican. Cotopaxi will have an extended holiday for Holy Week according to Daniel Noboa's decree. Internationally, the country of Catatumbo in the heart of the war in Colombia. No one enters or leaves without permission from this border region with Venezuela, where the dispute between guerrillas has expelled nearly 100,000 neighbors from their homes. As the news says, mines, drones, and armed control have

The zone has been converted into an open-air cage. The victims left by Cristi Noem, the damage is already done. Wounded, detained, and deported by the dismissed U.S. Department of Security celebrate their departure. We continue with Euronews. Iran accuses the United States of preparing an attack in a truce to negotiate. The entry of the Houthis into the war entails the risk of further destabilizing international maritime transport if the group acts to block the passage of bunkers through the Red Sea, as it did previously during Israel's war against Gaza. Massive protests against Trump on the day of no kings. And we conclude with Infobye. Iran threatened to attack the American aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. Yes, it is within shooting distance. The Iranian Navy, uh, carried out this order. They have also just changed the headline of Infoby. It says, "An Iranian missile caused a fire in an industrial zone in southern Israel. They are trying to contain the leak of hazardous materials." The army reported that a missile shrapnel impact was identified in the Ramatobat industrial area, located in the Neueve desert. So far, no injuries are reported, right? Well, the international information, or well, there we are sharing with you. Uh, there is other other news that we also want to share with you, friends. Well, on Friday night, a contract killing occurred. According to information from, uh, the police of Cañar itself and the mayor of Azogues, uh, Javier Serrano, it would be a kind of settling of scores that is still under investigation. But the truth is that a [clears throat] woman leaves the women's prison of Azogues. She leaves the women's prison of Azogues and is released. Her two daughters and her grandson will see her. At least, I insist, it is preliminary information. And after that, a man on a motorcycle goes and fires shots, which would not be a shootout, but would be an attack. A shootout is when there is a response, but a direct attack on the three people, and he kills them. That is a triple contract killing or a contract killing with three victims. And the child is injured, according to the information we have so far. This caused great alarm, and it is not the first contract killing. This is the most serious that has occurred in Azogues, but it is undoubtedly also one of the serious ones and the complications. And yesterday the COE met. The cantonal COE of Azogues met and resolved some things. We will do the most important. The Azogues Security Table adopts urgent measures after triple murder at the land terminal. Following the violent incident registered outside the Azogues land terminal, which left three women dead from gunshot wounds, cantonal and provincial authorities activated an extraordinary session of the inter-institutional security table to coordinate immediate actions. The Attorney General's Office of Ecuador of Cañar indicated that the corresponding investigation has already begun, including the analysis of video surveillance cameras to determine arrival and escape routes. A possible leak of information related to the release of one of the victims is also being investigated. Among the main resolutions adopted by the authorities are: immediate confirmation of a permanent inter-institutional working group, reinforcement of security operations in public events and high-attendance spaces, implementation of vehicle controls at strategic points in the canton, intensification of operations in markets, supply centers, and commercial areas, among other things. What is new, friends, is that the minor has come out unharmed. That is what, at least, this information highlights. It confirms what we have already indicated. They tell us, "What sadness." Yes, part of sadness, I think it is a concern. Concern. Much concern. Much, much concern. Three women victims, uh, deceased from gunshot wounds. This is concerning. The tranquility of Azogues, where you went without a problem, is disappearing. Until recently. Until recently. Therefore, please, the municipality, the governorship, the prefecture of Cañar have been asked to work jointly, meaning, stop the squabbling and work together. We have seen the three of them working there, uh, promoting that, but it must be permanent, right? Because here they can't even stand each other. The mayor with the prefect, let's say, the mayor and the prefect get along, but the prefect and the mayor with the governor, they don't even see each other, not even in a painting, I think. And that finally, of course, between them will be their problem, what has happened. Once again, friends, let's leave enmities outside of what is important for the citizenry, work together. We will continue insisting on that. Like it or not, we will continue insisting. Well, there is also breaking news of a police intervention. Pablo Inga informs us. In an inter-institutional intervention by police units of the Cuenca, North and South districts, General Intendancy of Police of the Suay, Police Commissariat, Mm. Citizen Guard and Municipal Control, within the framework of institutional competencies, carried out an inter-institutional operation in different sectors: Las Peñas, Turi, 12 de Abril, Feria Libre, Calle Larga, Bajada del Padrón, uh, Parque de las Candelas, and Remigio Crespo. Results: closure of two establishments that did not have the required documentation, notifications to commercial establishments to regularize their permits, and registration and verification of criminal records. Well, more important, my penultimate news of the law, implementation of the police. We are going to a new break. We'll be back, friends, we'll have much more. We'll return shortly. The voice of [music] Tomebamba is born from all voices. 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Click on schedule your appointment and that's it. Choose from over 400 specialists and select the time that best suits you. Remember, www.hospitalmontesinaí.org. Your appointment is just a click away. In this home, there are two of us, a small table, and a chair that is never empty. In ours, the table is large, and the entertainment center never fails for family Sundays. In this home, we have everything to work from home and spend time with our puppy. Here there are fewer of us, but every piece of furniture has a story. Different homes, different families, different stories. 50 years under your same roof. Colineal, surround yourself with [music] what makes you happy. Hey, hello, do you want a house? With Mutualista SU, you can have your house or apartment. Interest rate of 7.49% and a 20-year term. Stop renting and start living in your own home. Come to Mutualista SU today or find us on social media and apply for your loan. Promotional rate for a limited time. [music] Conditions apply. Su, [singing] the scorer who plays at home, the European sports club. The best products and real football were born only in this city. Only here do we know what grit is. Only here do we know what grit is. Only here is this passion lived. Eternally red in heart. La Europea and Deportivo Cuenca together making history. La Europea knows a lot, knows well. The voice of Tomebamba is born from all [music] voices. End of advertising space on La Voz del Tomebamba. Sunday Bulletin. [music] We continue, friends. 9:21 AM. 9:21 AM. Thank you for joining us. Radio La Voz del Tome Bamba is informing you. Well, we also want to let you know, friends, that there is news regarding the elections. Well, yes, the elections. We were making a comparison yesterday, looking at what is being resolved, especially on the two important issues related to the registration of candidacies and the electoral campaign, with what was initially approved, with what was resolved last Friday in the National Electoral Council. The electoral campaign has some changes compared to the previous one. This is the new calendar approved by the National Electoral Council, that the elections will be on November 29, Sunday, November 29, no longer on February 14, Valentine's Day, uh, next year, 2027, meaning there will be that change. But there are some things that, for example, are very striking. Why? Because the time for registering candidacies is reduced, for example. And we were looking at it yesterday and clarifying the numbers. For example, what is reported regarding this issue is that it will no longer be the days that were planned for the registration of candidacies, which were initially 30 days, right? Now they are reduced, they are significantly reduced, and that obviously also causes concern for political members. Previously, registration was planned from August 31 to September 29, meaning there were 30 days to register in the previous one. In the approved one that is in effect. In the approved one that is in effect, it will simply now be from August 2 to August 16. August 2 to August 16, 15 days. 15 days, meaning it would be halved, 15 days from 30 down to 15 days to register candidacies, which will no longer be from August 31, from August 31 to September 29, but from August 2 to August 16, 15 days. The electoral campaign, which was planned days ago, from November 23 to February 11, 18 days, will now be reduced by four, it will be only 14 days of campaign. That is, in 14 days all campaign projects, campaign proposals can be presented. It is significantly reduced. This has caused a series of reactions nationwide, even the former president of the Republic, Rafael Correa, urged all possible candidates of the Citizen Revolution to disaffiliate from the Citizen Revolution in order to participate in what they consider would be an imminent possibility of rejecting some candidacies of the Citizen Revolution, according to the opinion of the former president and leader of the Citizen Revolution. The mayor of Cuenca was asked yesterday about this issue, and he ratified that he will be a candidate. Well, he has, in our opinion, forgive me if you don't like my comment, but he has a triumphalism that for me is dangerous. One thing is to be optimistic, another thing is to be triumphalist. He practically said three weeks ago that he would respond to any reaction regarding accusations against him or the administration after February 15, 2027, once he is re-elected. Well, if that is the case, then there is no need to hold elections, but this requirement must be met. Each one will know how to manage their discourse, right? Each one is responsible for what they say or what we say, but that must be differentiated. One thing is triumphalism and another is optimism, right? I have seen many candidates here who have said they will win and already considered themselves winners, others who have already declared themselves winners and ended up losing. So, one must be very careful. In the elections at the University of Cuenca, for example, here in the first debate, Marbust Hermida declared herself practically the winner. In the first round, she said it would be very difficult to go to a second round or that she could win in the first round. She ended up losing the rectorship. So, one must be very careful when speaking, I think, at a political level, but each one, I insist, is responsible for what they say. We only offer opinions based on the results that have been happening, and we have also said that there has been no re-election since the return to democracy in 1979 in Cuenca. The only re-election immediately was that of Fernando Cordero, who, despite achieving World Cultural Heritage status, had a difficult re-election. The first re-election, the second he lost to Marcelo Cabrera. There have been re-elections skipping periods by Javier Muñoz and that of, uh, Marcelo Cabrera. What will happen in politics? Nothing is ever certain. Yes, nothing is ever certain. What will happen with these changes that benefit the government? I don't know. That they benefit or want to eliminate other candidates? That is also not, uh, some proven, and this is not to say that if they are eliminated, the ADN will win, no, no, no, that is a campaign of proposals of good candidates, etc. The one who did pronounce himself is the provincial prefect of the Suay. I heard very quickly what he said regarding this issue of the change. Yesterday, the elections were advanced by the National Electoral Council, headed by Diana Tamaí, the sectional elections were advanced. What is your opinion? Why did they do it? Well, that would have to be asked of the councilors. They claim it is due to climatic conditions. Well, I think it is the electoral climate that is currently adverse for some political actors, but I am enormously surprised by how the law, the Constitution of the Republic, is permanently violated. That is not established in any legal instrument that elections can be advanced. So, a clear violation of the law, a clear violation of the Constitution because it is not established there. The causes are very clear in the Constitution of the Republic. Uh, only if the Assembly is dissolved and elections are advanced, could something like that be done. Well, that is basically what the provincial prefect of the Suay said regarding this issue. The other thing, ladies and gentlemen, is that I have 80, I have 30, I have 50. I have seen candidates in these 25 years of my profession who say they have 90, 95. They beg me to be a candidate, they beg me to stay in power, and they ended up losing because Cuenca is a very complicated city electorally, re-election here in Cuenca is very difficult, but well, we will see, we will see what happens on November 29, which is now the new date. We are going to a new break, right? We are going to a break, we have a pending break, and we will return to say goodbye with some important topics as well. We'll be back. The voice of [music] Tombamba. Start of commercial break. We're celebrating 18 years and we're celebrating with you at Cálido. Yes. Come to Cálido Mol del Río and get comforters, cushions, sheets, and more of superior quality and at prices you won't see again. With up to 50% discount from March 26 to 29 on selected merchandise. 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Dial 11 and visit us at our main branch. More information on our social media. Conditions apply. Flying high also means understanding [music] the human being and transforming society. At the Academic Unit of Social Sciences of [music] the Catholic University of Cuenca, the Red Eagles are trained in law and social work. Develop critical thinking, social sensitivity, and commitment to reality. Here ideas take flight and actions generate change. Fly high C. A red eagle. We are Cato heart. The voice of [music] Tome Pamba. End of commercial break on La Voz del Tomebamba. Sunday Bulletin. [music] [music] On the political issue, friends, and there are reactions. The only poll is the one that will happen after the elections, the one that is useful and the one that will allow us to know. Of course, all of that. The process must be observed as it unfolds. 9:33 AM, we are saying goodbye. Today is the week, the week begins, right? Today is Holy Sunday and Palm Sunday. Tomorrow Holy Week begins. I've already confused things. Tell us something about Palm Sunday. Friends, Palm Sunday is a Christian celebration that commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, marking the beginning of Holy Week. It is celebrated on the Sunday before Easter, where the faithful bless palm or olive branches to remember how the crowd received Jesus as the Messiah. Palm branches that are prohibited from being sold. Yesterday we saw that they were even promoting the sale of these palm branches. It is prohibited for the natural issue and, and nature, excuse me. And the other issue is, obviously, these palm branches are burned and then used on Ash Wednesday to place on the forehead, saying, "Dust you are and to dust you shall return." But starting tomorrow, we begin Holy Week. Holy Weeks that are different, right? You are millennials. You millennials. Millennials. No, no, no, no, no, no. You never experienced, for example, ours with Edi, we can say, because before, for example, Holy Week would start, and the whole week was just sacra music, there was no way to even bathe, you had to eat, there was no way to even speak loudly, it was a rigid way of observing Holy Week. And when Jesus died at 3 PM on Friday, everyone had to be in complete calm and prayer was mandatory. Now things have changed, and if you bathed on Fridays, you would turn into fish. Seriously, don't laugh. Seriously. [laughter] Wow. That's how it was before. Now things have changed a lot. Religion, some take it this way, others don't, but in any case, each one will know what they do. Now let's hope. Uh, that this week passes, everything passes peacefully. What we see is the Pope, Pope Leo XIV, is asking for the war against Iran, in the Middle East, in Ukraine to cease, meaning for the war to cease in the world. He asks for prayer for migrants on this Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week tomorrow. Holy Week, for example, in, uh, starting tomorrow in Venezuela, they gave vacations for the whole week because energy consumption has increased due to the high heat that Venezuela is experiencing, and given the lack of electricity supply, meaning to avoid blackouts that already occurred all week, in Venezuela they are on vacation, a holiday. Here, on the other hand, Friday is a national holiday, this Friday is a national holiday. So, this week, work is only until Thursday, Monday to Thursday, and Friday is a national holiday. Well, that's how we go. Thank you, Hernán, and thank you, friends, and have a very happy Holy Week and Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday. Nothing more, friends, a hug to everyone. Take good care. We send a strong, strong hug to each and every one of you.