ACAPULCO, Mexico - Candido Trinidad de la Cruz, who had been eagerly planning a joyous family Christmas celebration, now faces the somber reality following the aftermath of Hurricane Otis, which struck the Mexican beach resort Acapulco two months ago. The devastating hurricane claimed the lives of his wife and two children, as well as all their belongings.

On Christmas Eve, Trinidad de la Cruz, nursing a severe leg injury from the powerful hurricane, clings to hope, still searching for any sign of his missing family members. In an attempt to find solace and cherish happier moments, he has constructed an altar adorned with family photographs, vibrant flowers, garlands, and candles.

The family had initially envisioned a festive Christmas dinner featuring grilled pork ribs. However, in the wake of the tragedy, Trinidad de la Cruz forgoes the traditional feast held on December 24th, instead sharing a modest meal of tamales, a Mexican corn dish, with his mother.

Hurricane Otis wreaked havoc on Acapulco on October 25, reducing homes to rubble and claiming the lives of at least 50 people, with numerous others still unaccounted for. The destruction incurred billions of dollars in damages to residences and hotels, leaving many Acapulco residents grappling with the aftermath, searching for missing loved ones, and attempting to rebuild their lives.

In response to the catastrophe, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has initiated a $3.4 billion recovery plan, expressing a commitment to revitalizing the once-vibrant beach resort swiftly. Despite these efforts, local businesses in Acapulco are grappling with the harsh reality of having missed the crucial tourist season, particularly during the festive period of Christmas.