Chapala community activist Cristina Flores Desales has been honored by the Colegio Mexicano de Profesionales de la Cultura (CMPC) for her exceptional contributions to promoting cultural activities in her hometown and surrounding lakeshore communities.
Flores is the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Ixca Farias Presea, an award given annually by the Colegio to individuals who have made a significant impact on Mexico’s cultural development. The award was officially presented on Friday, January 24, at the CMPC awards ceremony held at the Jalisco’s Government Palace.
Flores’ husband, daughter, son, and around 40 of her lakeside friends and admirers were present to celebrate her national recognition for her dedication to preserving and enhancing the cultural richness of the lakeside area.
The award is named after Juan Farías y Álvarez del Castillo, the renowned Tapatio artist (1873-1948) known as Ixca Farías, who is remembered as a pioneer in Mexican museology.
Flores is well-known for spearheading the revival of Day of the Dead memorial offering displays on Chapala’s Calle 5 de Mayo. Additionally, she regularly sets up beautifully adorned altars in the carport at her home for other occasions, such as the Friday of Sorrows before Holy Week.
Some years ago, Flores and her close friend Rogelio Ochoa led the design and installation of the Natalia Cuevas tiled memorial patio, located in the median strip opposite the San Francisco Parish, among other public projects that highlight local history and culture.
Flores has also held significant leadership roles in the community, including serving as Chapala’s director of culture under former mayor Javier Degollado, and advocating for the restoration and conservation of Lake Chapala. Known for her dynamism and generous spirit, she has rightfully earned recognition as a local hero.