In Ecuador, a group of around twenty individuals affected by a devastating fire at the Multicomercio building gathered for a peaceful protest on the streets of Chile and Cuenca. They voiced their desperation for solutions and highlighted their struggles, echoing phrases like "We want answers" and "We need to work." Many participants included people who lost their vehicles in the fire, those hoping to retrieve salvaged belongings, and local business owners whose enterprises have been severely impacted by the incident.

Among the protesters was William Guerrero, a business owner forced to close his shop for the past fourteen days due to the catastrophe. He expressed the dire situation by stating that it is impossible to work or even live under the current circumstances. Guerrero managed to salvage a few items but emphasized that he and others like him face immense losses, particularly given that they operate in a bustling commercial area known for its economic activity. The significance of the protest lies not only in the immediate need for assistance but also in the broader implications it has on local businesses and community stability.

The fire incident, which occurred on February 11, has left many families in distress, leading to their displacement as they find temporary housing solutions. While exact financial losses have not been fully assessed, sentiment among the affected is that the repercussions are substantial, as they are left in limbo, hoping for interventions from authorities. As this situation develops, it raises questions about future regulations for safety in commercial buildings and how communities can better prepare for similar disasters.