One year after his passing, we honor Hugo Eduardo Torres Chabert — visionary entrepreneur, civic leader and founder of the Rosarito Beach Hotel — whose deep commitment to Rosarito helped shape the city’s development and identity.

Recognized as a key figure in Rosarito’s transition from district to municipality, Torres played a decisive role not only in tourism and public administration, but also in expanding educational opportunities for local families.

A steadfast advocate for education

Throughout his life, Torres demonstrated unwavering support for students, parents and educators. In the 1970s, he helped establish Rosarito’s first high school, initially housed in a modest community-built facility at Abelardo L. Rodríguez Park. That project laid the foundation for what is now COBACH Rosarito High School — an institution that continues to serve generations of students.

Promoting academic excellence

In 1991, he founded Fundación Cultural Horizontes, A.C., with the goal of strengthening academic achievement in local schools. For 18 years, the foundation organized annual academic competitions in Spanish, mathematics, writing, public speaking, art and storytelling, offering recognition and incentives to students and teachers who demonstrated excellence and dedication.

Supporting school infrastructure

Torres also played an influential role in securing land and support for educational facilities, including the first public middle school in the city — Abraham Lincoln State Middle School No. 32 — ensuring space for growth as Rosarito advanced toward municipal status.

A lasting impact

Through his vision, generosity and leadership, Hugo Torres Chabert helped build an educational foundation that continues to benefit thousands of young people. His legacy endures in every classroom and in every student whose future has been strengthened by greater opportunity.

Based on text by Professor Miguel Jiménez García, Education Commission — Pro-Municipality Committee.