Teresa Padrón, the former manager and close friend of El Taiger, recently shared a heartfelt video on Instagram showcasing the newly refurbished chapel at Havana's Colón Cemetery. This is where the Cuban reggaeton artist, his mother, and now his grandmother, are laid to rest.
The chapel has been freshly painted and boasts a new roof. "Today, my heart is full seeing the chapel where you rest alongside your mom, and now your grandmother, looking beautiful once again. It's freshly painted, with a new roof, and cared for with the love and respect you all deserve," Padrón expressed in her post.
The renovation holds a deep meaning, as the artist's grandmother, Magda Nidia Reyes Macías, passed away on June 22, 2026, in Cuba, and her remains have been interred in the same family chapel.
Teresa emphasized the significance of this place for her. "To many, it might just be a chapel, but to me, it's so much more. It's a place I will always ensure is dignified, beautiful, and filled with love," she shared.
It was Padrón who orchestrated the transfer of El Taiger's remains to Cuba and acquired the chapel at the Cristóbal Colón Necropolis, where the artist has been resting alongside his mother since December 2024.
This month, in addition to the Havana chapel, Teresa also rejuvenated the memorial in front of Miami's Jackson Memorial Hospital with flowers, white balloons, and other symbolic elements, keeping the artist's memory alive on both sides of the sea.
Her post concluded with the signature Teresa repeats every month without fail: "Today, the 10th, once again: mission accomplished. ALWAYS JOSÉ," along with her unwavering call: "JUSTICE FOR JOSÉ MANUEL CARVAJAL ZALDÍVAR."
El Taiger died on October 10, 2024, in Miami at the age of 37, after being shot in the head. His untimely death shocked the Cuban community both on the island and abroad, and since then, Teresa Padrón has dedicated herself to ensuring that neither his name nor his family are forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions about Teresa Padrón and El Taiger
Who was El Taiger?
El Taiger was a Cuban reggaeton artist whose music and untimely death impacted the Cuban community both within the island and internationally.
What is the significance of the chapel renovation?
The chapel renovation in Havana's Colón Cemetery is significant as it houses the remains of El Taiger, his mother, and now his grandmother, symbolizing a place of respect and love maintained by Teresa Padrón.
How is Teresa Padrón keeping El Taiger's memory alive?
Teresa Padrón maintains El Taiger's memory by ensuring the upkeep of his family chapel in Havana and a memorial in Miami, as well as through her continued advocacy for justice in his name.