The Sonora Congress approved the resignation of Puerto Peñasco’s mayor, Óscar Eduardo Castro Castro, citing health concerns following a recent surgical procedure. The move, effective immediately, paves the way for regidor and former Ayuntamiento Secretary Alejandro Verdugo Angulo to assume the role of municipal president in January 2026. The decision ensures continuity in city operations at a key time for this growing border tourism hub.
Castro, from the Morena party, started as mayor in September 2024 for a three-year term. In a video message, he explained his decision. He said doctors advised him to focus on recovery, and the job needs someone who can work full-time with full energy. “Puerto Peñasco deserves a mayor who can give it everything,” he told residents. He thanked everyone for their support and wished the city well.
The city council held an emergency meeting and accepted his resignation. They chose Verdugo Angulo, who used to be the Ayuntamiento Secretary (like the main city administrator). He already knows how the government works from the inside. The Sonora Congress approved everything early that morning, and Verdugo took the oath right away. Dalia Saray Moncada stepped in as the new interim secretary.
This switch comes during a busy time for Puerto Peñasco, often called “Arizona’s Beach.” Many visitors from the U.S. come here in winter for sun, seafood, and live events. Stable leadership helps keep tourism strong. Projects like beach cleanups, road maintenance, and the big solar power plant need steady planning.
Local people seem okay with the change. Sofia Ramirez owns a seafood spot on the Malecón. She said, “We get a lot of tourists right now, and we need things like clean streets and event permits to keep going. Verdugo knows the office already, so hopefully nothing slows down.”
Miguel Torres, a fisherman who also guides visitors, agreed. “Health is more important than any job. Castro worked on some port fixes, which helped us. But Alejandro has been part of the team – he knows about planning and keeping the estuary clean. That’s good for fishing and for eco-tourists who like nature.”
For now, Puerto Peñasco moves forward with a familiar face in charge. In a place where tourism and local life mix every day, steady government helps everyone enjoy the beach life just a bit more.
About the author: Joseph Sanchez is a AMPI-certified real estate agent with RE/MAX Legacy , developer of Viviente at Sandy Beach , president of Rocky Point Home Builders and a U.S. Combat Veteran. He resides here in Puerto Peñasco with his wife and three children and is originally from Chicago. For more information visit www.rockypointrealestate911.com on the internet or email rockypointrealestate911@gmail.com.
