By: Dr. Mario Melgar-AdalidIn the midst of the debate on Mexico's proposed tax and energy reforms, with the capital besieged by teachers who are dissatisfied with the proposed education reform, heavy rains arrived and caused serious damages in the states of Guerrero, Oaxaca, Michoacán and Tamaulipas. Acapulco has been significantly affected, especially since it is a tourism hub that generates the majority of income for the State of Guerrero, one of Mexico's poorest states. Flooding caused nearly 100 deaths and there are still persons in remote areas who have not been accounted for. Thousands were left without shelter, and the physical damages are even harder to quantify. President Enrique Peña Nieto dedicated an entire week, along with his cabinet, to working on these issues. He even cancelled his regular appointment schedule during these days in order to remain up to date and to guide the decisions of the federal government. The solidarity among the people of Mexico has been shown once again through the support offered to those in need and the victims of this disaster. Likewise, the armed forces that have rendered aid to the affected population have served as a prime example of efficiency, dedication, discipline and commitment. Nevertheless, an urgent need exists for the country to return to normalcy in order to continue doing the country's business and allow for programs and projects in all areas to move forward. It is imperative for all parties to the so called Pact for Mexico to forge ahead with the agenda that was temporarily suspended. This does not, however, imply losing sight of the need to provide continued assistance to the citizens of southern Mexico. That said, the best way to return to normalcy is to resume the national agenda at the point where it left off in the middle of September, when the tragic devastation that impacted so many areas of Mexico occurred
