NPP to hold 2026 convention across island’s western coastal region
By THE STAR STAFF
The New Progressive Party (NPP) announced Tuesday that its 2026 annual convention will be held in western Puerto Rico, with events spread across nine municipalities in an effort to expand participation and generate economic activity throughout the region.
Scheduled for Dec. 4-6 under the theme “Vamos Pa’l Oeste! De Parranda con la Palma” (“Let’s Head West! Celebrating the Holidays with the Palm”), the convention will combine the party’s institutional meetings and assemblies with holiday-themed social events, NPP Secretary General Jorge Santini Padilla said.
The convention’s main activities will be centered at the Courtyard by Marriott Aguadilla and the Mayagüez Resort & Casino, while additional events will take place in San Germán, Cabo Rojo, Rincón, Añasco, Aguada, Isabela and Moca.
Santini said the expanded format reflects the party’s goal of reaching more communities and encouraging broader participation among its membership.
“Since Jenniffer González Colón assumed the party presidency, NPP events have typically concentrated activities in multiple hotels within the same municipality,” Santini said. “This year, the convention will extend across several municipalities, allowing us to bring our programming directly to different communities throughout the western region.”
The former San Juan mayor described the convention as a blend of party business and Puerto Rico’s Christmas traditions, emphasizing fellowship and grassroots engagement.
“We are heading west with a convention full of enthusiasm, joy and the spirit of the holiday season,” Santini said. “We want our members to enjoy a different experience that is not confined to a single location.”
Party officials also highlighted the potential economic impact of the gathering, noting that hundreds of participants and visitors are expected to travel throughout the western region during the three-day event. Organizers said the influx could benefit hotels, restaurants and local businesses.
The convention agenda includes organizational assemblies, educational workshops and meetings involving various sectors of the party, including youth members, women and public servants.
Activities will begin on Dec. 4 with a meeting of the NPP governing board at the Mayagüez Resort, followed by a founders’ gathering in Rincón and a meeting of local party presidents in Aguada. Gov. González Colón is scheduled to headline an evening event focused on the party’s programmatic commitments.
On Dec. 5, events will include an electoral activity in San Germán, a youth assembly in Añasco, and a gathering of statehood-supporting farmers in Moca featuring first gentleman José Yovín Vargas. Other sessions will focus on infrastructure projects and efforts to improve Puerto Rico’s electrical system. The day will conclude with a Christmas celebration in Aguadilla.
