Issuu

Mijas Comunicación inaugurates an exhibition of the best photographs from the 2025 Mijas Passion Week

/13

SATURDAY 21ST WILL SEE THE TENTH

The Entrerríos Youth Hostel anew edition of the Mile reopens for Easter week Equestrian Route along Mĳas Beach

La CALA boulevard set host

Following repairs to the damage caused by the storms, the Town Hall is organising a day and overnight camp for children aged 4 to 14

Organised by the Livestock Department and the Peña Caballista, the event will depart from El Esparragal at 9 hours and finish at Los Olivos Park in La Cala

The Local Police add 16 new motorcycles to its fleet

These vehicles will increase police presence on the streets, speed up response times and improve officers’ operational capacity NEWS/02-03

the reinforcement of the Local

demonstrates its commitment to public safety. According to the council, this strengthening of the force is part of a broader increase in security investment which, they claim, has risen by 200% since 2020, with 3.2 million euros allocated in the 2026 budget. The roll-out of a video surveillance system in the municipality, a project currently out to tender; the recruitment of more officers, the purchase of 420 drug tests and the renewal of uniforms are among the investments that the

THE VIRGEN DE LA PEÑA BROTHERHOOD OF

As part of the 30th Municipal Sports Games, it will take place on Saturday 21st at 17 hours. Registration is free

More than 50 companies gather for the second Mijas Job Opportunities Fair

Held at CIOMijas, the event aimed to promote employment, encourage training, and create stable jobs

NEWS /6-7

The Town Hall describes the lack of AVE services for Easter as "very worrying"

The mayoress and the councillor for tourism called on the central government to take responsibility, arguing that “this is a consequence of the State’s lack of investment”

NEWS /11

New directive approved to streamline urban planning procedures

ISABEL SEDEÑO MOVES THE CROWD appoints new board of directors

with her Holy Week proclamation The parish of La Inmaculada was moved by the words of the local woman, who was tasked with announcing Passion Week

/10

This measure will simplify the recognition process for buildings under the ‘Asimilado a Fuera de Ordenación’ (AFO) status

NEWS /08

SPANISH /12

The mayoress, Ana Mata, and the councillor for the Local Police, Juan Carlos Cuevas Dawson, inspect one of the new motorcycles alongside an officer.

Raúl Fernández appoints new elder brother after his candidacy secured 141 votes in the elections held on Sunday 15th

The Mijas Town Hall highlights that

Police vehicle fleet

Local Police department has allocated to the force /M.J.G.

Security

with 16 new motorcycles Mijas strengthens Local Police

These will allow for increased police presence, faster response times and improved operational capacity

On Tuesday, the Mijas Town Hall presented 16 new motorcycles that have been added to the Local Police fleet to strengthen the force’s operational capacity and improve officer mobility across the municipality’s various urban centres. Specifically, eight 350cc and eight 750cc Honda scooters have already been delivered as part of a municipal leasing contract for a total of 22 motorcycles.

The first deputy mayor and councillor for the Local Police, Juan Carlos Cuevas Dawson (Vox), accompanied by the mayoress of Mijas, Ana Mata (PP), explained that “this addition is part of the ongoing reinforcement of resources that the Town Hall has been promoting since the current administration took office. From that moment, we set a very clear objective: to provide our officers with more means, resources and better tools to carry out their work effectively. The addition of these motorcycles is another step in the continuous strengthening of the force”.

Greater presence and agility

According to the local executive, these new units “will allow for an increased police presence on public roads, speed up response times to incidents, and improve the officers’ ability to act in urban areas, hightraffic zones, or spaces where rapid mobility is essential”.

The motorcycles also facilitate preventive patrolling and traffic control, particularly vital in a municipality like Mijas, characterised by its vast territory

EIGHT 350 CC

THE BATCH

EIGHT 750 CC scooters scooters to follow

6 MOTORCYCLES

and the coexistence of several urban centres with intense tourist and residential activity.

Cuevas Dawson also highlighted that “this sustained effort is already beginning to be

reflected in the municipality’s security data”, noting that “when the Local Police are reinforced and provided with adequate means, results follow. Today, Mijas is the only

municipality on the Costa del Sol where crime has fallen, by nearly 10%, while in other surrounding municipalities it has increased by up to 12%”. This, he added, “proves that inves-

ting in security and in our officers is a direct investment in the peace of mind of Mijas residents”.

Furthermore, the councillor emphasised that this initiative

Report by Ed. Dept. / Design: Carmen Martín / Translation: C.Arroyo

The mayoress and the councillor for Local Police in conversation with chief superintendent Juan Manuel Rosas / M.J.G.

Security

3.2 million in the 2026 budget

Video surveillance out to tender

€2,182,703.81 (excluding VAT)

is the base tender budget, an allocation included in the Mijas Town Hall’s 2026 accounts. The bidding process is currently open and proposals may be submitted.

UNTIL THE 6TH OF APRIL

falls within “the historic increase in the budget allocated to the Mijas Local Police, which has seen a 200% rise compared to 2020, allowing for the progressive strengthening of the force’s material and operational resources”.

Commitment to security

The mayoress for her part, highlighted “the significant commitment to security being made by the Mijas Town Hall, not only regarding vehicles like these motorcycles but also in the video surveillance system,

of eight 350cc and eight 750cc scooters, included under a municipal contract for a total of 22 motorcycles These consist

which involves an investment of 2,182,703 euros plus VAT in the 2026 budget. This includes, among other features, the installation of over 150 cameras across the municipal area, specifically in the three main population centres (Mijas Pueblo, La Cala and Las Lagunas) and in the main residential areas”.

BUDGET

INCREASE

200% compared to 2020

The new motorcycles are part of the current administration’s investment drive in the Local Police. This is evidenced by the 3.2 million euros earmarked in this year’s budget to improve the force.

Other initiatives

More officers

420 new drug tests New uniforms

CRIME RATE DROPS

according to

Other ongoing investments

Surveillance drones

Specific equipment

Mobile speed cameras

Uniform renewal

Body-worn cameras

New breathalysers and speed cameras

Modernisation of the shooting range

Ventilation improvements in the Headquarters’ garage

Reinforcement of service weapons and ammunition

Light signalling systems for public roads

Maintenance of security systems in municipal buildings

reduction in robberies involving violence 10%

Mijas is the only town on the Costa del Sol where overall crime has fallen, according to Ministry of the Interior data for December

The addition of these 16 motorcycles is part of a municipal lease of 22 units for the Local Police, which will be completed in the coming weeks with the arrival of the remaining motorcycles specified in the tender. “The motorcycles are intended for the Neighbourhood Police and the Interven-

tion Units”, explained the chief superintendent of the Mijas Local Police, Juan Manuel Rosas, who added that “with this fleet renewal, we will have more motorised units on the streets, resulting in a more efficient service. Officers arrive much

reduction in burglaries 20% reduction in cyber fraud

sooner on motorcycles when requested, especially during peak traffic hours; the immediacy is far greater than with cars. This allows us to offer a more effective service to the people of Mijas”. Through this action, the

Town Hall continues to make progress in improving the technical and operational resources of the Local Police, strengthening their capacity to act and adapting the force’s resources to the needs of a dynamic municipality.

The mayoress, Ana Mata, and the councillor for the Local Police, Juan Carlos Cuevas Dawson, inspect one of the new motorcycles alongside an officer / María José Gómez.

The Local Police carry out

48 security checks and arrest 12 people in February

Report by Ed. Dept. / Design: Carmen Martín / Translation: C.Arroyo

Throughout February, the Mijas Local Police carried out various operations aimed at ensuring public safety, enforcing compliance with municipal ordinances and maintaining harmony in the municipality’s public spaces.

The councillor for the Local Police, Juan Carlos Cuevas Dawson (Vox), praised the daily work of the officers and highlighted the importance of these actions in ensuring that residents perceive the presence and effectiveness of the police.

“Our Local Police work every day so that the people of Mijas feel there are officers looking after their safety and ensuring compliance with the rules that guarantee coexistence throughout the municipality”, he explained.

Arrests

As a result of these operations, officers arrested 12 individuals

Officers issue 23 fines for breaches of the Public Highway Ordinance and 70 under the Public Safety Act

The councillor for Local Police, Juan Carlos Cuevas Dawson, reviewed the operations / M.J.G.

for various criminal offences, including breaches of sentencing orders and fugitives from justice.

Regarding municipal ordinances, 44 reports were filed for

breaches of the Public Safety and Coexistence Ordinance. Notably, these included 21 for dumping waste, household items, or garden cuttings outside designa-

The figures

48 security checks 12 arrests

44 reports for breaches of the Public Safety and Coexistence Ordinance

70 reports under Organic Law 4/2015 on the Protection of Public Safety

23 reports for breaches of the Public Highway Ordinance

Year-round efforts

ted bins or areas, a practice that damages the image of public spaces and creates cleaning issues.

Furthermore, officers processed 23 reports for breaches of the Public Highway Ordinance, mainly relating to the failure to wash away dog urine with water,

a measure designed to maintain hygiene and public health in streets and squares.

In application of Organic Law 4/2015 on the Protection of Public Safety, 70 reports were issued, 47 of which related to the consumption of narcotics in public and 11 for disrespect or lack of consideration towards law enforcement officers.

Additionally, as part of their preventive work, the Local Police carried out 48 security and documentation checks at various points across the municipality.

Public cooperation

Cuevas Dawson emphasised that these figures reflect the ongoing efforts of the department to guarantee safety and social harmony. “The cooperation of residents is essential for maintaining order and respect in our communal spaces. When neighbours report incidents and cooperate, the Police can act with greater speed and effectiveness”, he concluded.

on

Marbella Street Surface renovation begins

The works, which involve replacing the paving, are scheduled for completion before Easter

María José Gómez

Renovation work on the cobblestones and paving of Marbella Street began on Tuesday 17th and is expected to be finished within a week. On Thursday 19th, the mayoress of Mijas, Ana Mata (PP), and the councillor for Operational Services, Daniel Gómez Teruel (PP), visited the site. “This is the busiest street in La Cala because it provides access to the beach,” noted the mayoress of Mijas, who added that “it is one of the streets being considered for pedestrianisation, where access would be restricted to vehicles belonging to local residents with parking spaces. The deterioration we have seen is precisely due to he-

GROUPS

avy goods vehicles; this has caused the road surface to sink, leading to accidents such as falls, particularly among the elderly.”

For his part, the councillor for Operational Services recalled that the road underwent a comprehensive refurbishment in 2021, but currently “the paving has subsided and many areas had become very dangerous, with many residents demanding a solution”. “We are lifting the old paving and renovating it to leave the street in perfect condition”, added Gómez Teruel, who assured that the works are scheduled “to be completed before Easter”. The execution period is one week, as time is needed for the road base to set before the new paving is laid.

ALTERNATIVE

routes

Work is being carried out over approximately 300 linear metres. These improvements, undertaken by the Operational

Mijas Toastmasters Club members compete in public speaking contestcompetition

Clubs from Mijas, Málaga, Seville and Granada took part; three members of Costa del Soul Speakers qualified

I.M. Members of the Mijas Toastmasters Club competed last Saturday 14th in a public speaking competition alongside clubs from Málaga, Seville and Granada, all belonging to Area 2. Thanks to these events, which are held annually at the club, area, division and district levels, participants develop public speaking and leadership skills and have the opportunity to excel in a competitive envi-

ronment and progress through successive rounds.

According to a press release from the club, “it was a day full of energy, fostering deep friendship and lasting camaraderie”.

Four members of the Mijas club, Costa del Sol Speakers, won awards in their respective categories. Joen Olsen took second place in the English speech category, as did Minerva Quijera in the Spanish speech category. So-

ledad Riveros, meanwhile, took first place in the French speech category, whilst Lauren Schuivens secured third place in the English evaluation category.

The top two finishers in each category will advance to the division contest, to be held in Seville on the 11th of April. The road to the podium continues though the District Spring Conference, which will take place in Málaga from the 15th to the 17th

Services, will prevent “this subsidence from affecting the main pedestrian flow on this narrow and busy street, especially in

Marbella Street is one of the main arteries in La Cala, so these works have required traffic changes to ensure safety. The Town Hall reminds residents that an alternative route has been established for access to Calle Reina Fabiola and Calle Antequera, while access to Calle Cártama will be via Calle Benarrabá or Calle Estepona. All these changes have been coordinated with the Local Police.

summer, when many people come to visit this unique environment here in La Cala”, said Mata.

where the quarter-finals and

Three members of the Mijas club qualified to take part in the subsequent rounds / Toastmasters Mijas. of May,

semi-finals will be contested, culminating in the World

Championship of Public Speaking in Vancouver (Canada) in August.

The mayoress, Ana Mata, and the councillor for Operational Services, Daniel Gómez Teruel, visited the area on Thursday 19th / M.J.G.

Training and employment

Over 50 companies gather

at the 2nd Mijas Job Opportunities Fair

The event, which featured a roundtable and various presentations, aimed to promote job placement and the creation of stable employment

Report by Irene Pérez / Design: Isabel Merino

Offering new opportunities for employment, training and career guidance were the key objectives of the 2nd Training and Job Opportunities Fair (FDEFOL). The event was held on Wednesday 18th by the Mijas Town Hall Department of Economic Development at the CIOMijas facilities, with the

Presentations

ROUND-TABLE DISCUSSIONS

and informative talks completed the event

To round off this recruitment event, the Department of Economic Development and CIOMijas organised a round-table discussion and several informative talks.

ONE OF THE PRESENTATIONS WAS DELIVERED BY BEATRIZ ZAMBRUNO, HEAD OF HUMAN RESOURCES AT TEAM FEHER, who spoke about the digital tools available to make finding work easier. “These include the LinkedIn platform, which allows us to check our mobile phones daily for job vacancies advertised by companies that best match our interests or skills”.

support of the National Reference Centre and the Regional Government of Andalusia.

The fair brought together more than fifty businesses and entities from the tourism, tech-

the primary YOUNG PEOPLE,

job seekers

Among the attendees were many young people, the demographic that continues to face the greatest challenges in entering the labour market. They are confronted with barriers such as a lack of experience, high expectations from companies, job insecurity and temporary contracts. “There are many young people with completed degrees, including PhDs and language qualifications, who nevertheless cannot find work in their field and struggle to secure decent employment”, said Laura Gaspar, a careers advisor with the group Ayuda en Acción. .

Beatriz Zambruno (second from the left) was one of the speakers / I.P.

nology, consultancy, agri-food and human resources sectors, among others. In addition to showcasing the services, they collected CVs from attendees in search of a new job or a ca-

reer change. “In this regard, we must thank all these companies for their participation, especially those here in Mijas, for assisting job seekers and, most importantly, offering em-

ployment opportunities”, stated the mayoress of Mijas, Ana Mata (PP), who also noted that “today we are taking another step towards creating the conditions that foster economic

La alcaldesa Ana Mata; la delegada de Empleo, Carmen Sánchez y el edil de Desarrollo Económico, Juan Carlos Maldonado, recorrieron los diferentes stands de la feria / I.P.

Training and employment

also helps TRAINING

If one thing became clear at this fair, it is that training helps, and signiﬁcantly so, in ﬁnding a better job; that is why various training and educational centres from the province attended the event, alongside the Chamber of Commerce, the Army and the Andalusian Employment Service (SAE).

“I’ve come to see if there are any interesting job vacancies, perhaps in supermarkets or clothes shops, where I have more experience”

growth in our municipality”.

For his part, the councillor for Economic Development in Mijas, Juan Carlos Maldonado (PMP), added that “our aim is to continue working along the

“I work in an airport bar, but I’ve come to look for something better, something with more stability and better hours, ideally during the week”

IVÁN SALGUERO, REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF THE RECRUITMENT AGENCY ADECCO, also took part in these talks, discussing the professions and trades with the best career prospects. He also highlighted the commitment companies must demonstrate to prevent the so-called brain drain, “and to achieve this, in addition to a competitive salary, companies must offer good working conditions and flexible hours, particularly to support a healthy work-life balance, something that is vital nowadays and which companies are increasingly aware of”.

lines set out by the Town Hall, that public-private partnership which enables maximum labour market integration.

Although the employment figures in our municipality are

very positive, we cannot be complacent”.

Regarding training, the regional delegate for Employment, Carmen Sánchez, who opened the fair alongside the

mayoress, affirmed that “the Junta de Andalucía is also committed to training, we see it as truly necessary”. She noted that “since 2019, we have invested 122 million euros in the province of Málaga in Vocational Training initiatives, benefiting nearly 5,000 people”, she stated.

Job

opportunities

This second edition of the job fair sparked significant interest from both companies and attendees, particularly due to the timing of the event: the start of the peak tourist season, which translates into an increase in recruitment. “Here in Mijas we are quite satisfied because we are a very economically active municipality with many business initiatives and, and a hig-

her number of self-employed people than other cities in Andalusia” highlighted the councillor for the Economy, Mario Bravo (PP).

As for the event’s progress,

The

Economic

Development Department organised the event in collaboration with the National Reference Centre and CIOMijas

the director of CIOMijas, Raquel Hidalgo-Barquero, noted that “it has been very well received; in fact, many companies that attended last year wanted to return, alongside the new ones that have joined us”.

MARINA MÁRQUEZ Attendee

JAVIERA URZÚA Attendee

a new directive to streamline

The Town Hall approves urban planning procedures

The initiative aims to improve administrative efficiency and legal certainty in order to verify the status of properties

Ed. Dept. / Design: C.Bejarano

The Mijas Town Hall has approved a new directive within the Urban Planning department to reinforce “its commitment to administrative simplification and legal certainty”, according to the local executive, which highlighted that this directive will provide property owners and professionals with clearer and more predictable procedures when regularising or certifying the planning status of certain buildings. Specifically, the measure seeks

This measure

will simplify the process for recognising buildings under the ‘Asimilado a Fuera de Ordenación’ (AFO) status

to organise and simplify the processing of files for the recognition of buildings under the ‘Asimilado a Fuera de Ordenación’ (AFO) status (a legal category for buildings situated outside of formal planning zones), located on all types of land, whether urban or rural. It also covers the administrative certification of the applicable planning regime (‘certificación administrativa del régimen urbanístico aplicable’, CARA) for buildings on all types of land, excluding public domain land, which is imprescriptible by law.

THE AIM of the directive

To organise and simplify the processing of:

Files for the recognition of buildings under the ‘Asimilado a Fuera de Ordenación’ (AFO) status, located on urban or rural land.

Management

This new directive, 2/2026, establishes technical criteria with the aim of standardising procedures, reducing processing times, and facilitating the relationship between citizens and the Administration. The instruction is consistent with Law 7/2021 on the Promotion of Territorial Sustainability in Andalusia (LISTA) and the general regulations that implement it.

The local government underlined that these benefits also extend to professionals in the

Administrative certiﬁcation ﬁles regarding the applicable planning status (CARA) for buildings on any land type, excluding public domain.

sector, such as architects, surveyors, engineers and administrative managers, involved in these types of proceedings.

“The existence of clear and uniform criteria facilitates the preparation of technical documentation, reduces the need for corrections, and allows for greater predictability in the process, which translates into more efficient case management”, the Town Hall stated.

Regularisation

Furthermore, the directive reinforces legal certainty for both,

IMPACT

All of this facilitates: the preparation of technical documentation, reduces the need for further information requests and allows for greater predictability in the procedures.

These beneﬁts also extend to professionals in the sector (architects, surveyors, engineers or administrative managers) involved in these types of procedures.

Furthermore, it strengthens legal certainty for owners and professionals by deﬁning more precisely the requirements and conditions applicable to these types of actions.

owners and professionals, by defining the requirements and conditions applicable to these urban planning actions more precisely. This also encourages

The directive

strengthens legal certainty for property owners and professionals

the regularisation and clarification of the administrative status of certain buildings, enabling owners to verify their planning

regime before other administrations, financial institutions, or during property transactions.

With this initiative, the executive concluded, “the Town Hall continues to make progress in modernising municipal urban planning management, committing to a more agile, transparent and accessible administration. The new instruction will contribute to improving public service, facilitating professional activity linked to urban development, and offering the public clearer, faster, and more secure procedures”.

Roots and faith

Isabel Sedeño delivers a moving proclamation

woven from memories of the Barrio Santana

La Inmaculada Concepción was filled with solemnity during the proclamation by this neighbour, a founding member of the Cristo de la Columna Parish Group, tasked with announcing the approaching days of Passion

On Saturday the 14th, the parish of Mijas Pueblo was enveloped in an expectant silence, the kind of reverence felt when something momentous is about to happen. The air was thick with the scent of incense and the approaching Mijas spring as Isabel Sedeño Alarcón stepped up to the altar to deliver the Holy Week proclamation. With a voice trembling “trembling like a sprig of spikenard”, Isabel delivered an intimate, personal and deeply moving speech, rooted not in theological erudition, but in the truth of the streets and the experiences that forge faith. In a packed church, the woman from Mijas traced an emotional journey that began in her grandmother’s room, before a leather belt and an antique hairpin. Those objects, kept as relics, bore witness to the promise of a desperate mother during the dark years of the war, a mother who vowed to carry the Nazarene in procession if her children returned alive from the conflict.

“That is where I learned what the Passion is is before seeing the first ‘trono’ (throne) in the street”, Isabel confessed, reminding those present that, beneath the embroidered mantles and silver, Holy Week is “not only the story of a God who gives Himself up; it is also the universal tragedy and pain of a mother watching her son suffer”.

The proclaimer, one of the founders and former elder sister of the Cristo de la Columna, centred her exaltation on the humble beginnings of this parish group. With infinite tenderness, she recalled those first steps in the early 1980s, when they carried a modest throne they affectionately called the ‘matchbox’”. She drew both smiles and tears as she remembered how the entire neighbourhood would climb the mountains to gather rosemary and wild lilies because greenhouse flowers were too expensive, or how families would swap robes in a veritable “miracle of the loaves and fishes” so that no one would be left out of the procession.

Her prolcamantion was also a tribute to those who came before her and to those who sustained

An

encounter with music

The atmosphere of the event was further heightened by the unmistakable strains of Mijas’s traditional music. The Villa de Mijas Choir and the Mijas Music Band enveloped the audience with their stirring accompaniment. As a token of gratitude for their selﬂess dedication, awards were presented to the band’s director and deputy director, Francisco Valcárcel and Salvador Fernández, as well as to the choir’s director, Francesca Fesi. The parish priest of Mijas, Hermán Marcel Lunar, was also presented with a gift and took the opportunity to praise Isabel’s courage: “Thank you for sharing this experience of faith with us, which also enriches us; we remain committed to passing it on to future generations”.

Isabel’s path to the lectern was carefully prepared by those who know her devotion best. The ceremony was conducted with solemnity and affection by Alonso

her faith in the darkest moments, focusing on the figures of her mother, Francisca Alarcón , a woman of “faith, spirit and strength”, her father, Cristóbal Sedeño, and the unconditional love of her husband Francisco Romero . But Isabel did not merely

brotherhood, who guided the evening with great precision. However, it was the 2025 Holy Week proclaimer, María de la Peña Leiva, who was tasked with formally passing the torch. With words brimming with admiration, Leiva described her successor as a woman whose daily life is “a faithful reﬂection of the Gospel, lived with simplicity, constancy and truth”. “We know that your voice will lead us to contemplation, that your words will be a balm and a calling, and that through you, the people of Mijas will once again encounter the mystery that gives meaning to our hope”, said Peña Leiva, foreshadowing the deep emotion that the proclamation about to be delivered would unleash.

look back to the past; with her eyes fixed on the future, she celebrated the fact that young people have taken the helm of the brotherhood, seeing in her own granddaughters the guarantee that the tradition of Mijas is eternal.

As the organisation is led by the Parish Group of the Santísimo Cristo de la Columna, there was a moment of deep recognition for the elder brothers and sisters who have sustained the entity throughout its 40-year history. Francisco Núñez Francisco Roca José Antonio Santaella Josefa Quero received the warm applause and tribute of their town for having served as beacons for this brotherhood. Honouring

In conclusion, after calling upon the residents to be a refuge and comfort to their neighbours throughout the year, the proclaimer declared the start of Passion Week with a wish that resonated like a blessing through the vaults of the church: “May the

green of hope flood our hearts, and may our lives on earth be as happy as eternal life”. The long and heartfelt applause that followed her words confirmed that her message had taken root, forever, in the soul of Mijas’s brotherhoods.

Beatriz Martín / F. M. Romero

The mayoress of Mijas, Ana Mata, alongside the announcer, the parish priest and some councillors from the local government / M.C.

Sedeño alongside representatives from some of brotherhoods in Mijas / M.C.

Sedeño with her husband, Francisco Romero / M.C.

Javier Roca, a brother of the Cristo de la Columna

Alonso Javier Roca / M.C. María de la Peña Leiva / M.C.

Isabel presented a memento of her proclamation / M.C.

The Town Hall describes

the lack of AVE this Easter week as “very worrying”

According to the mayoress Ana Mata, the delay in restoring high-speed services will also affect the 800 Mijas businesses linked to tourism

Report by Ed. Dept. / Design: Carmen Martín / Translation: C. Arroyo

The mayoress of Mijas, Ana Mata (PP), described on Tuesday 17th as “very worrying” the fact that the AVE high-speed train between Málaga and Madrid will not be fully operational during Easter, as stated the previous day by the president of ADIF himself. According to Mata, losses associated with the tourism and services sector in the province

of Málaga “already amount to 1.3 billion euros”, also affecting “the more than 800 businesses in Mijas linked to the tourism sector and over 7,000 workers who depend on this industry”.

The mayoress of Mijas lamented that the central government has not accelerated repair work on this section of the high-speed line, knowing full well that the peak tourist season begins at Easter “and that all this will have a very negative impact

Priceless Smiles

on the reinforcement contracts usually made at this time of year in restaurants, cafés, shops and beach bars, amongst other establishments”.

For all these reasons, Mata urged Pedro Sánchez’s government to take responsibility “because this is a consequence of the state’s lack of investment, which has looked to other autonomous communities but, once again, has left ours until last”.

In this sense, the mayoress also joined the request made by the Málaga PP to “not apply the toll increase on the AP-7 motorway during Easter, as well as to compensate tourism sector entrepreneurs with tax relief.”

Damage to the local economy

The councillor for Tourism at the Mijas Town Hall, Francisco Jerez (Vox), also spoke out regarding the economic losses from the lack of the AVE, which could exceed 1.3 billion euros for Málaga and the Costa del Sol, “and if we take into account that Mijas concentrates nearly 10% of the province’s tourist beds, the economic impact for our

The mayoress of Mijas, Ana Mata, alongside the councillor for Tourism, Francisco Jerez / Archive.

According to the mayoress of Mijas, Ana Mata (PP), the losses associated with the tourism and services sector in the province of Málaga “now amount to 1.3 billion euros”, also affecting “the more than 800 businesses in Mijas linked to the tourism sector and over 7,000 workers who depend on this industry”.

The councillor for Tourism, Francisco Jerez (Vox), estimated, for his part, that the economic impact on Mijas could be as high as around 130 million euros.

DROP IN BOOKINGS

1.3

billion euros in losses

The hotel sector also expressed its concern on Tuesday following the announcement that the direct rail link will not be restored until the end of April. According to Aehcos, the reduction in bookings on the Costa del Sol ALREADY STANDS AT 18%, RISING TO 25% IN SOME OF THE PROVINCE’S INLAND MUNICIPALITIES AND TO 30% IN THE CASE OF MÁLAGA CITY. Similarly, they point out that the road transfers between Málaga and Antequera, offered as an alternative to continue the journey by high-speed train, are increasing travel times to up to four and a half hours.

municipality could be around 130 million euros”, he noted.

Jerez recalled that “the Costa del Sol is one of Europe’s leading tourist destinations and cannot afford failures in strategic infrastructure”, adding that “when the connections that sustain our economy are neglected, those who end up paying the price are our business owners, our workers, and thousands of families who live off tourism”, he concluded.

Idiliq invites Adimi members to enjoy a day of togetherness

M.Fernández. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day. For the ninth consecutive year, the Idiliq Foundation opened the doors of the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts facilities to offer members of the Mijas Association for People with Disabilities (Adimi) a day of togetherness where no detail was spared. The event took place on Tuesday 17th at Zac’s restaurant, and the morning began with a buffet breakfast which the guests enjoyed as if they were genuine tourists spending a well-deser-

ved holiday on the Costa del Sol. “Every year we welcome a visit from Adimi; this year more than 50 members have come, split into two groups. It’s always wonderful to see them and watch them arrive, because every time someone from our entertainment team suggests a new activity, the first thing we see is the smile on their faces, and that makes it all worthwhile”, said the president of the Idiliq Foundation, Juan Miguel Marcos. For his part, one of Adimi’s service users, Jorge González, said: “We come here every year for breakfast and to have a good time; we really enjoy coming here and it’s a lovely place. I’d like to thank Idiliq and the activity leaders”.

every time someone from our en-

A smile to change the world

This is the slogan of the foundation’s social outreach, as its exact goal is for Adimi members to forget their difficult daily lives for a while and have fun. “They love anything that involves leaving the centre and getting out of the routine, and if it also includes a good breakfast, they are delighted to come”, added one of the Adimi staff members. Antonio Ruiz explained that the day was enjoyed by users from all the services offe-

red by Adimi: the day unit, occupational workshop, and residence, so that the activities were adapted to the needs of each individual. Idiliq was also visited by the councillor for Social Inclusion at the Mijas Town Hall, Mari Francis Alarcón (PP): “Idiliq does excellent social work. The service users step out of their comfort zone and it does them a world of good to take part in different activities and socialise; the truth is they’re having a brilliant time.

What the Idiliq Foundation does sets an example for other local businesses to follow”.

After breakfast, it was time for a bingo game. In addition, the Adimi users received a surprise visit from Spider-Man, who handed out gifts to the visitors as a memento of the experience. And as the grand finale of the day, everyone went to the disco together to dance and sing. In short, smiles that change the world.

In this snapshot, the councillor Mari Francis Alarcón and Juan Luis Marcos, in the centre, alongside staff, volunteers and users / M.F.

C. Luque

The Mijas Town Hall has presented a new edition of the equestrian route along La Cala Beach, organised in collaboration with the Peña Caballista Mijeña. The event for horse lovers will take place next Saturday, 21st of March, promising a day that combines tradition, community spirit, and equestrian culture. The route will depart at 10:00 hours from the Peña Caballista Mijeña headquarters in El Esparragal, following various paths across the municipality until reaching La Cala beach, where horses and riders can enjoy the Mijas coastline.

After the ride along the coast, the group will move to Los Olivos Park in La Cala, where at around 15:00 hours, a social gathering will be held for participants and attendees, featuring food, a designated area for riders and various activities.

In this edition, and in collaboration with the Town Hall, several members of the ‘peña’ will perform dressage displays to showcase their skills with the horse. The amateur participants leading these demonstrations will be Álvaro Alconchel Cuevas, Diana Candón Ruiz, and Salvador Jaime Rosado. The

SOLIDARITY

New Equestrian Route along La Cala Beach

totake place on Saturday 21st

The route will depart from the headquarters of the Peña Caballista Mijeña in El Esparragal and finish in Los Olivos

The Mijas Town Hall organises a day and overnight camp for children aged 4 to 14

and even from abroad. Everyone is invited to contribute and support the world of the horse, which, let’s not forget, attracts many people and a great deal of tourism”.

Belmonte also pointed out that “it is a simple activity designed for everyone to enjoy, with an accessible route suitable for families and people of all ages, intended to enjoy the horses and the Mijas surroundings in a friendly atmosphere”, he said.

After the ride

day will conclude with a horseback flamenco show, featuring rider José González and dancer

María José Bueno

The councillor for Livestock at the Mijas Town Hall, Eloy Bel-

(Vox), highlighted “the value of these types of activities in preserving the municipality’s traditions and reinforcing the historical relationship between Mijas and the equestrian world.

The Entrerríos Youth Hostel reopens for Easter

C.B. Following repairs to the damage caused by recent storms, the Entrerríos Youth Hostel is back stronger than ever ahead of Easter. The Town Hall has programmed a camp for children aged 4 to 14, which will run from the 30th of March to the 3rd of April. Applications can be submitted until the 24th of March.

along the coast, the group will move to Los Olivos Park in La Cala

the equestrian world in our mu-

Horses are part of Mijas’ identity and our traditions. The horse is part of Mijas’ identity and our heritage. This route is a magnificent opportunity to showcase that legacy and to continue demonstrating the importance of the equestrian world in our municipality”, he explained.

Equestrian world

The president of the Peña Caballista Mijeña, Ana Guerrero Fernández, stated that “people come from many parts of Spain

Ceballos (PP), who explained that “in recent weeks, the Town Hall has worked hard to repair all the damage that prevented the facility from opening during the ‘Semana Blanca’ half-term. Now that the work is complete, the hostel is in perfect condition for the little ones to enjoy”.

As for the planned camp, it will be held under the name ‘Guardians of the Earth’. Activities will take place in small groups with clear objectives and an active methodology, “and weather permitting, most of these activities will be held outdoors, in the heart of nature”, as the councillor noted. These will include nature trails, archery, cookery workshops, arts and crafts, fancy dress, sports, evening entertainment,

Guerrero stated that “this is the only opportunity to be on the beach. The Town Hall fully supports us in organising this coastal route, where the horses look their best and really catch the tourists’ attention”. The Town Hall encourages residents to come and enjoy the day, even “if they are not participating with a horse, as they can still enjoy the dressage display, the flamenco show, and, of course, the social gathering”. Registration can be made via WhatsApp on: 620 581 350 and 670 066 075.

drama and mime workshops, and scavanger hunts.

The price for registered residents is 54 euros and 108 euros for non-residents, provided there are places available. Applications can be made in person through the official registry at the Town Hall and the Branch Offices (Tenencias de Alcaldía) in La Cala and Las Lagunas, or via the electronic office (mijas.sedeelectronica.es). There will be a total of 60 overnight participants and 10 in the day-stay format through the Inclusion programme. Places will be allocated on a strict first-come, first-served basis.

monte

The councillor for Livestock, Eloy Belmonte (2nd from left), with members of the Peña Caballista Mijeña / M.C.

Councillor Melisa Ceballos at the presentation of the Easter programme / C.Luque.

This was announced by the councillor for Youth Hostels, Melisa

Holy Week Photo Exhibition

Until the 6th of April, the Folk Museum is hosting a selection of 39 photographs featuring the processions of all the brotherhoods as well as the municipality’s marching bands

Report by Isabel Merino / Info and photos: Nuria Luque

Mijas Holy Week has the virtue of leaving us with unique images that stir the emotions just by evoking them. Every year, Mijas Comunicación has the privilege of being a direct witness to this tradition, broadcasting all the processions live, giving a voice to its brotherhoods and confraternities, and capturing the best of our Passion Week in images. Indeed, some of these images can be viewed from Thursday 19th until the 6th of April at the Mijas Pueblo Folk Museum (Casa Museo), which is hosting the municipal company’s eighth

A memento for

the brotherhoods

Mijas Comunicación took the opportunity of the exhibition’s opening ceremony to present the brotherhoods with a gift.

As has become tradition, the municipal company presented representatives of each brotherhood with photographs displayed at last year’s Holy Week exhibition, as well as a screen-printed box containing a USB stick with images of processions from previous years. It is undoubtedly, a lovely memento that will allow them to always cherish the finest moments of their processions.

Holy Week exhibition. The showcase features 39 photographs and an audiovisual selection of last year’s highlights. “I know it’s difficult to select the 39 best images, but I believe they have succeeded because these are very good photos that represent not only Holy Week in general but also the spirit with which the people of Mijas experience it”, said Mario Bravo (PP), CEO of Mijas Comunicación. For his part, Juan Carlos Cuevas Dawson (Vox), also CEO of this house, congra -

tulated the media group: “You do a wonderful job; the idea is brilliant, the brotherhoods deeply appreciate it. They also do a wonderful job that comes from the heart. The photographs are full of colour and artistry; you’ve chosen them very well, Congratulations”, he said. The councillor for Culture, Juan Carlos Maldonado (PMP), also attended the inauguration of the exhibition, stating that “for eight years now, these photos have captured the essence of our Holy Week; we see a lot of tradition, a lot of devotion and, above all, idyllic spots in our municipality that are enhanced even further during those days”.

The PSOE councillor in Mijas, Belén Roca , remarked that “although it is difficult, every year they surpass themselves a little more. They capture different images and try not to repeat moments we have within Holy Week; we are grateful for the work they do”.

Impressions from the brotherhoods

The exhibition reflects the processions of the seven brotherhoods, confraternities, and

parish groups in the town. Members of the governing boards who attended the inauguration were delighted with the initiative. “We must thank Mijas Comunicación because they do a great job of broadcasting the processions live. The truth is that last year’s photos are very beautiful”, commented the elder brother of the Brotherhood of Santísimo Cristo de la Paz, Jorge Leal Belén Guerra elder sister of the Santa Teresa Parish Association, confessed: “I’ve fallen in love with it, because you can see the quality of the image, its focus, the photos really convey something. I am deeply grateful to Mijas Comunicación for this opportunity that gives visibility to all the brotherhoods”.

Francisco Alarcón ‘Corro’ , one of the attendees, also had words of praise for the municipal company. “You are specialists; we are lucky to have you, and the photos are marvellous. The work is brilliant because you manage to bring Holy Week into people’s homes, and for those who cannot go out onto the streets, that is one of the most important things there is”.

1.- Images of the procession of Cristo de la Unión in Las Lagunas. 2.- Photographs of the procession of Ntro. Padre Jesús de Medinaceli. 3.- Members of the Brotherhood of Dulce Nombre de Jesús Nazareno with their photographs. 4.- Mijas PSOE

Attendees contemplating the photographs of the ‘Santo Entierro’ Parish Group.

The director of Mijas Communication, Laura Delgado (right), together with the company’s managing directors, Mario Bravo and Juan Carlos Cuevas Dawson; the councillor for Culture, Juan Carlos Maldonado, and councillor Mari Francis Alarcón, presenting last year’s photographs to the brotherhoods.

WHAT´S ON

FRIDAY 20TH

Stations of the Cross by the Brotherhood of Santo Entierro Parish Church of the Inmaculada Concepción, following the 19 hour Mass

‘Sinceros’

Manuel España Theatre, 20 h

Featuring Vivy Lin, Miguel A. Martín, Álvaro Carrero and Fran Sánchez, presented by Juanma Lara Tickets at lacocheraentradas.com, and at the box office from one hour before the show. Price: 15 euros

Saeta recital

Peña Flamenca El Gallo, 21:00 hours

Featuring saeta singers Rosario de Córdoba, Paqui Corpas and Rufino Rivas

10th Equestrian Route along Mijas Beach

Departure at 9 h from El Esparragal

The event is scheduled to finish at 15 hours at Los Olivos Park (La Cala), where there will be a social gathering Bookings on 620 58 13 50/670 06 60 75

Lecture: ‘La poesía del flamenco’

Peña Flamenca del Sur, 21:30 hours

Featuring Salvador Pendón as speaker, José García ‘El Petro’ on vocals and Carlos Haro on guitar

Saeta event

Peña Flamenca Unión del Cante, 19 hours

Featuring performances by Cristina Maestre, Ángel Rayo ‘Barquerito’ and Juanfran Lara. Presented by Sebastián Fuentes

SUNDAY 22ND

‘Todos con Alberto’ charity event Caseta del PCA, Fuengirola fairground, from 12 to 20 hours

Featuring Barakatum, a DJ set, tango with Fernando & Paola, and the rock band Animals

There will be paella, cheese, couscous, beer, soft drinks and jamón

‘La Ratita Presumida’ Manuel España Theatre, 18 h

Performed by Jabetín Teatro. Advance tickets 9 euros and 10 euros on the day. Available at lacocheraentradas.com and at the box office one hour before the performance

WEDNESDAY 25TH

Blood donation Mobile unit next to the Town Hall, from 17 to 21 h.

‘Los destellos del autismo (TEA)’, presented by the Dance With Freedom dance school

Manuel España Theatre, 20 hs

In aid of Dani Tickets: 7 euros. Available from the academy and at the theatre two hours before the performance

Exhibition of Holy Week photographs

Folk Museum, Mijas Pueblo Until the 6th of April

Organised by: Mijas Comunicación and the Mijas Town Hall

Exhibition The Zodiac, by artist Tine Lilholt

Mijas Arts Centre

The exhibition runs until the 21st of March. More information via WhatsApp on 614 616 240

Second-hand market

Las Lagunas fairground and Urb. Calypso, Mijas Costa Sundays from 9 to 14 h

Exhibition by Héctor Ponce Las Lagunas Cultural Centre Visits until the 6th of April

Exhibition by artisans Liana Popa and María José Calvente Mijas Tourist Office

Until the 30th of March

Photography exhibition ‘Macro, de lo ínfimo a lo enorme’, by the Asfoalh Photography Association Asociación Nuevo Enfoque Mijas, urb. El Coto; residencial Los Olivos, bloque b, portal 2, local 25, 20 h Until the 10th of April