In a recent video shared by Canal Caribe, Coralia Aguilera Hernández, the director of Content and Programming for Cuban Television, unveiled the "summer programming lineup for the enjoyment of the whole family." The announcement was met with a storm of sarcasm, mockery, and anger on social media.
The reaction was fueled by a stark reality: Cuba is grappling with a severe electricity crisis. In Havana, blackouts can last up to 22 hours a day, while in provinces like Matanzas, power outages have stretched to an astonishing 85 consecutive hours.
In the announcement, Aguilera enthusiastically detailed the return of the series Policía K1 on Sundays, the debut of the telenovela "Entre Aguas" on Cubavisión, premieres like "Valle Salvaje," and a new version of "Doña Bella" on Multivisión. The lineup also included summer courses and children's workshops on the Educational Channel.
Tele Rebelde, according to Aguilera, plans to broadcast the World Cup from the round of 16 to the final, followed by the Central American Games, promising "a highly sporty summer."
However, public discourse was dominated by one pressing question: "With what electricity?"
One user sardonically noted, "If there's no power, they might as well shut down the ICRT to save electricity."
Another commented with irony, "That's excellent news, it means we'll have electricity 24/7; finally, we'll be like normal people."
Yet another user pointed out the cynicism of the announcement: "This joke is better than the 176 economic measures," referring to the regime's economic plan announced on June 19, which was also met with widespread skepticism.
One commentator labeled the programming announcement as "a tremendous comedy show. My respects to its writer and director."
Some tried to rationalize the announcement: "This must be programming for those with solar panels, energy stations, or generators—those with alternative energy sources at home."
Others summed up the situation with dark humor: "Summer options: power rationing, heat, and mosquitoes."
A user criticized the monotonous state content: "Since I was born, the Summer Programming has been the same every year, except this year we won't see any electricity."
One Cuban admitted, "I can't remember the last time I turned on the TV; I use the few hours of electricity to catch some sleep with a fan."
Another remarked graphically, "The only series we'll watch is 'Infernal Blackout,' with many episodes all summer long and beyond."
The dire context behind the announcement is clear: Cuba's electricity deficit surpassed 2,174 MW in May 2026, a historic record that left 70% of the country in darkness simultaneously. The National Electric System has collapsed seven times in the past 18 months.
Amidst this backdrop, Aguilera concluded her presentation with a phrase that, given the circumstances, seemed almost unintentionally ironic: "It's always the audience who guides us on where we need to go."
Understanding Cuba's Electricity Crisis
What is the current state of Cuba's electricity crisis?
Cuba is facing a severe electricity crisis with long blackouts affecting major cities. In Havana, power outages can last up to 22 hours a day, and in some provinces, outages can extend up to 85 hours consecutively.
How did the public react to the summer TV programming announcement?
The announcement was met with widespread sarcasm and criticism on social media. Many questioned how the summer programs could be watched amid the ongoing power outages.
What programming was included in the summer lineup?
The lineup included series like Policía K1, telenovelas such as "Entre Aguas," and sports events like the World Cup and the Central American Games. However, the practicality of viewing these programs is hindered by frequent power outages.