PERIODISTA DE COLOMBIA VIAJA A PERÚ Y ESTO LE DIJERON EN LA CALLE

Colombian Journalist Travels to Peru and This Is What People Told Him on the Street Colombian journalist travels to Santa Rosa Island: this is what people told him on the street Amidst growing diplomatic tension between Colombia and Peru, sparked by statements from Colombian President Gustavo Petro regarding sovereignty in border areas, a TV Perú news team embarked on a special mission: to travel to the remote island of Santa Rosa de Yavarí, deep in the Amazon rainforest, to hear the voices of those who live closest to the conflict… and furthest from the central government. A forgotten corner, but deeply Peruvian Located in the easternmost part of Peru, Santa Rosa Island is a small river village in the province of Ramón Castilla, Loreto region. With only one street of about ten blocks called “Mi Perú” (My Peru), this village is home to approximately 3,000 people who, despite the geographical and logistical challenges, maintain their strong sense of belonging and love for their country. “We are Peruvians by blood, proud to be Peruvian,” says a resident through tears, holding the red and white flag. “Even though the government has forgotten us, we are still here, building our nation.” From children learning history in a makeshift school to merchants who have lived there for over twenty years, everyone shares the same message: Santa Rosa Island is and always has been Peruvian territory. Voices from the Border: Dignity in Abandonment What hurts the residents of Santa Rosa the most is not only Petro’s declaration, but the constant neglect by the Peruvian state. “In Brazil and Colombia, they support citizens who live on the border. Peru, on the other hand, has abandoned us,” laments one resident. And yet, what is truly moving is the dignity with which they live their Peruvian identity. Filled with pride, the children sing the national anthem, wave flags, and learn that, although far from Lima, their identity is deeply connected to the nation that gave them birth. “It hurts me that they want to invade my country. I am Peruvian, and I cry for my country,” says another resident, his voice breaking. One of those interviewed summarizes the collective sentiment: “President Petro doesn’t know this reality. This island has never been Colombian. We have been here for decades, building our nation where others don’t even venture.” Changing Nature, Constant Sovereignty The testimony of a resident explains another interesting factor: the Amazon River changes course over time, creating new islands and altering the terrain. But that doesn’t change the historical sovereignty or the deep-rooted connection of those who live there. “Even if the river changes course, Santa Rosa remains Peru,” he says firmly. An Opportunity for Development? Far from being just a point of conflict, Santa Rosa could become a strategic gateway for tourism and Amazonian trade, given its location at the intersection with Colombia and Brazil. But for that to happen, the State must invest in, support, and stand with its citizens who defend the border simply by being there. The journalistic team's visit not only showcased the beauty of this corner of Peru, but also the urgent need for Lima to hear what the Peruvians of Santa Rosa have to say from the streets, with humility and patriotic love. CONTACT► [email protected]