A viral image circulating on social media falsely claims that mothers searching for missing persons disguised themselves as “Pato Merlín” mascots wearing Mexican National Team jerseys to secure a meeting at Palacio Nacional. The image, shared by a meme account under the parody label “MeJornada,” features a headline stating: “Mothers searching for missing persons dress as ‘Pato Merlín’ to see if Sheinbaum will receive them at Palacio.”

Despite its realistic news format, this information is entirely fabricated.

Here’s the real story behind the image and the political context fueling the satire:

– **The Origin of the Mascots and the Photo**
The photo does not show mothers searching for missing persons. Instead, it depicts a parody inspired by the viral phenomenon of “Pato Merlín,” a beloved domestic duck owned by a family of merchants in Mexico City’s historic center. The costumes and sneakers worn by the mascots in the photo replicate the exact outfit that made the real Pato Merlín famous. The search flyers held by the characters were either digitally added or used as part of a satirical protest leveraging the duck’s popularity.

– **Political Contrast Behind the Meme**
The meme emerged from a sharp social critique. During her morning press conferences, Mexico City’s Head of Government, Claudia Sheinbaum, praised Pato Merlín as a “symbol of our culture” and formally invited its owners to Palacio Nacional to present the duck on “La Mañanera.” This invitation sparked widespread indignation and debate online and in the media. Activists, journalists, and human rights defenders highlighted the stark contrast between the swift access granted to a viral animal mascot and the persistent barriers faced by mothers searching for their missing children in securing direct meetings with the federal executive.

– **The Real Protests**
In reality, these search collectives have never resorted to such costumes. Their demonstrations outside Palacio Nacional are marked by solemn acts such as placing fences with photos of their missing children, holding masses, peaceful sit-ins, chanting slogans, and symbolic gestures like leaving empty shoes in front of the government building.

This digital satire reflects genuine social discontent about government priorities but falsely portrays mothers searching for missing persons as having dressed up as ducks to protest.

For communities affected by disappearance and for those advocating for inclusive and responsive governance, understanding the difference between political satire and reality is crucial. The ongoing struggle of these mothers deserves respectful attention and meaningful dialogue — not misinformation.