Effective Response and White Helmet Initiative in Puebla’s Forest Emergencies and Floods

Web Editor

July 22, 2025

a group of people standing behind a red table with a microphone in front of them and a man in a suit

Introduction to Key Figures and Their Roles

Alejandro Armenta, the current governor of Puebla, has been instrumental in transforming the state’s approach to forest emergencies and floods through his commitment to efficient environmental protection. Under his leadership, the state has seen significant improvements in disaster management and community preparedness.

Governor Alejandro Armenta’s Achievements

  • In just 220 days of his administration, Governor Armenta established the Forest Guard and achieved a 68% reduction in forest damage compared to the previous year.
  • His focus on efficient environmental protection has led to the successful management of 300 recorded fires without any reported casualties.

Coronel Bernabé López Santos’ Contributions

Coronel Bernabé López Santos, the state’s coordinator for Civil Protection, has highlighted the transformation in Puebla’s disaster management landscape. Upon assuming his role in December 2024, he faced limited resources but, with the governor’s firm leadership and support from President Claudia Sheinbaum, he has steered the state towards a robust civil protection strategy.

  • Under his guidance, Puebla now boasts operational structures, defined plans, and empowered communities ready to respond to natural or human-induced threats.
  • The establishment of community committees in high-risk areas, such as the foothills of Popocatépetl, and verification of evacuation routes demonstrate a focus on practical actions rather than mere rhetoric.

Key Actions and Impact

Governor Armenta’s proactive measures include:

  • Creating the Forest Guard and strengthening the Forestry Police.
  • Personally overseeing emergency operations, evacuation routes, and assistance to families affected by natural phenomena.

These actions have not gone unnoticed, as Coronel López Santos emphasized the governor’s genuine commitment to protecting communities and lives.

Successes and Strategies

Puebla’s success in managing emergencies can be attributed to:

  • Preventive tasks and municipal training programs.
  • Harmonization of legal frameworks to ensure a comprehensive approach to civil defense.

The state now operates with a civil protection strategy directly linked to public safety, aligned with national integral civil defense vision.

Recognition and Support

During a recent event, Governor Armenta distributed support to the La Máquina community in Francisco Z. Mena municipality, providing lanchas, chalecos, and remos. The event also acknowledged the efforts of Civil Protection personnel, reinforcing Puebla’s emphasis on prevention, organization, and prioritizing human life in its policies.