Community leaders in the Campanillas sector of Toa Baja are warning of a growing and potentially dangerous landslide risk along Pedro Albizu Street, known as El Caño. Residents fear they could be cut off from emergency access if the terrain continues to give way. Daniel Torres Laureano, president of the Popular Democratic Party (PDP) in Toa Baja, accused Mayor Bernardo "Betito" Márquez García of ignoring repeated calls from residents who have requested maintenance and an official inspection of the deteriorating roadway.
"The people of El Caño are not asking for a favor," he said. "They are demanding that the municipality fulfill its duty."
Torres Laureano said neighbors have raised concerns for months, but no municipal officials have visited the area to evaluate the instability affecting the road. "It is unacceptable for an entire community to live with the fear of becoming isolated while the municipality refuses to respond," he said, adding that the mayor has not shown his face to residents who deserve answers and action.
He stressed that preventive maintenance of public roads and early intervention in landslide-prone areas should be a core municipal responsibility, and warned the road could become impassable if the landslide continues. Torres Laureano urged Márquez to order an immediate inspection of Pedro Albizu Street and develop a plan to stabilize the terrain and ensure safe access for residents.
"The people of El Caño are not asking for a favor," he said. "They are demanding that the municipality fulfill its duty."