A wave of criticism and strong reactions has shaken the Boca la Caja community after San Francisco representative Serena Vanmas decided to place an image of the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre next to a water tank, generating accusations of disrespect and even "sacrilege." The controversy erupted after a video was shared on social media, where a resident expresses indignation over what he considers a direct offense to the patroness of the fishermen in the area. The images show the religious figure located next to a large container where, according to reports, waste and all kinds of filth are thrown.
"That is the feeling of the majority," a male voice asserts in the video, demanding respect and harshly questioning Serena Vanmas's decision. Far from calming tempers, the controversy intensified after a meeting with residents, where the visibly upset official made her position clear: she will not remove the image. According to her statements, her intention is to promote awareness and curb improper waste disposal in the community.
"If I have to put an image of the virgin on every corner to stop people from littering, I will do it," she reportedly stated, also assuring that she is a believer and that the figure is being "cared for."
While some see the measure as a desperate strategy to combat pollution, others consider it a serious lack of respect for the faith and traditions of the neighborhood. The controversy continues to grow, highlighting a clash between culture, religion, and civic awareness that keeps Boca la Caja in the eye of the storm.
