Ensenada, August 15, 2025 — If you’re reading this while stuck in traffic on Avenida Reforma… well, welcome to the party.
This Friday afternoon, Ensenada’s busiest avenue turned into a real-life version of bumper cars (minus the fun and music). Dozens of police officers and firefighters—both retired and active—parked their official vehicles sideways, smack in the middle of Reforma, bringing traffic to a screeching halt.
Why the chaos? They’re protesting. And not the usual picket-line-and-bullhorn type. This is the park-your-cop-car-and-leave-it-there variety.
The blockade is happening right in front of the Municipal and State Government buildings, stretching all the way to the Government Center stoplight. Drivers have reported being stuck for over 90 minutes, and some probably still haven’t moved as you read this.
And honestly? If you’re heading out now, don’t. Grab a snack, pour a cold drink, and wait it out.
What Are They Protesting?
According to protestors, the City of Ensenada has been making “excessive and unjustified deductions” from their paychecks and pensions. They’re not talking a few pesos—they say the deductions exceed legal limits set by the SAT (Mexico’s tax authority) and are being labeled as “otros descuentos” (other deductions). That’s as vague as it sounds.
Retired police officer Efraín Ávila Cruz, speaking on behalf of the group, said that despite promises from officials and previous meetings, nothing has changed. One woman, Adriana Quiles, told local reporters she’s been waiting nine years to receive the pension of her late husband, a firefighter.
They’re also upset that vacation bonuses are being taxed like regular income, even though pensioners are legally exempt from ISR (income tax). That’s why they’re calling out Mayor Claudia Agatón and her team to stop hiding and finally fix the mess.
Meanwhile, on the Streets…
Frustration is boiling over—not from the protesters, but from drivers trapped in the gridlock. Some have taken to social media to document their impromptu car karaoke sessions. Others are trying to escape down side streets, only to find more red lights and more red brake lights.
So far, the protest has been peaceful—just painfully slow for everyone else. No reports of violence, just a whole lot of honking, sweating, and texting, “I’ll be late” for the fifth time.
Alternate Routes (If You’re Lucky)
If you’re brave enough to venture out, Reforma and Ciprés are a no-go. Locals suggest trying Lázaro Cárdenas, Ryerson, or Álvaro Obregón, but honestly, it’s hit-or-miss. The traffic backup is reaching far beyond the protest zone.
Also, maybe don’t rely on Google Maps. Even it seems confused.
Our Advice?
Stay where you are. Pour another glass of wine (or agua mineral, if you’re driving). Text your boss, your date, or your dinner plans and tell them Ensenada’s finest are taking over the city’s main road today—and you’re not going anywhere fast.
But hey, there’s a bright side. You now have a front-row seat to one of the most polite, civic-minded traffic jams in Baja history. No burning tires. No flipped cars. Just a sea of uniforms, official trucks, and frustrated drivers listening to rancheras and reruns of Bad Bunny remixes.
Final Thoughts
In a city where the beach is always calling and the wine is always flowing, today’s vibe is a little less “vino under the sun” and more “engine idling under stress.” But don’t worry—this too shall pass. Eventually. Probably.
We’ll have full video coverage soon at www.ggnorth.com. Until then, hang in there, Ensenada. You’ve got this.
