Mexico to decorate Japanese rescuers for help in 2017 earthquake aftermath

With the unveiling of a plaque at the Cholula Park in Mexico City , the Foundational Committee of the Residents Association Colonia Hipódromo will recognize the work of a Japanese brigade during the rescue work after an earthquake struck central Mexico on September 19, 2017 .

The recognition of all 72 Japanese rescuers will take place next Wednesday at 12:00 , with the participation of the Japanese Ambassador to Mexico, Yasushi Takase , and other Mexican authorities.

This was announced by Rafael Guarneros Saldaña , a member of the organizing committee who assured that they wanted to rename the place as "Park of Friendship Mexico-Japan."

Guarneros Saldaña said that the Cholula Park, spanning almost 2,500 square meters , is an example of citizen participation since it was built to prevent the construction of a theaters complex, back when it was still an abandoned substation.

A MXN$14 million investment was required for the park’s construction, 30% of which was gathered through parking meters in the area, for the recovery of family coexistence space, he said.

This type of actions, he said, serve as an example of what civil society can do in terms of environmental care to help mitigate the effects of pollution.

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