The government of the Dominican Republic decided to suspend the March 30 parade in Santiago, a traditional civic-military event that commemorates the Battle of March 30, 1844, a key victory in the national independence against Haitian occupation. This measure responds to President Luis Abinader‘s commitment to fiscal austerity, prioritizing public spending in the face of the crisis following the war in Iran, which has generated volatility in fuel prices and global tensions affecting emerging economies such as the Dominican one.
The Presidency’s Press Office confirmed that the rest of the honorary activities will continue. They will begin with a Te Deum at the Metropolitan Cathedral Santiago Apóstol, reaffirming respect for patriotic traditions and the value of the Armed Forces and the National Police.
Key projects in Santiago on March 30
- Delivery of property titles to hundreds of families, providing legal security in the area.
- Inauguration of a covered court in Cienfuegos, Santiago West, to promote sports and community cohesion.
- Opening of another court in Licey al Medio, boosting youth and family recreation.
These initiatives reflect the territorial proximity policy of the government, focused on projects that stimulate the local economy. Historically, the March 30 parade attracts thousands of participants, with costs estimated in millions of pesos for logistics and security, according to previous reports of similar events.
