As part of El Salvador’s economic development strategy, Minister of Tourism Morena Valdez participated Tuesday in the groundbreaking ceremony for Plaza San Marino, a new shopping center in the heart of Surf City, La Libertad.
Designed to serve both locals and tourists, the plaza will offer restaurants, banks, pharmacies, and convenience stores. “We’re going to have bakeries, pastry shops, and Pollo Campero, which will be one of the anchor establishments,” said Valdez. “There will also be more banks, pharmacies, and essential services for the people living in this area.”
The project is supported by the government of President Nayib Bukele through agencies like the Ministries of Tourism, Public Works, and Environment.
Valdez highlighted the growing importance of Surf City, noting that “70% of tourists arriving at El Salvador’s International Airport go directly to Surf City.” She also emphasized that tourism now contributes 11% to the national GDP and generates over 300,000 jobs.
Project director Roger Avilés said the plaza aims to meet daily needs and strengthen ties between businesses and customers. “We want to offer a space of convenience for both residents and visitors,” he said.
Plaza San Marino marks another step in the urban and economic transformation of El Salvador’s coastal region.