Lobster and even birthday cakes: the University pays for the whims of Radio UNAM director Benito Taibo

Benito Taibo, director de Radio UNAM, has been found to have spent nearly $175,000 on food and groceries over two and a half years, with some months exceeding $19,000 in expenses, according to a detailed review of invoices conducted by EL UNIVERSAL. The spending was charged to the University's budget and included visits to restaurants such as Red Lobster, La Casa Gallega, and Hooters, along with purchases of birthday cakes and other gourmet items. The investigation began after journalist Zósimo Camacho of Diario Red revealed Taibo's frequent visits to Hooters and his extravagant dining habits in early 2024. In response, EL UNIVERSAL requested access to financial records through the UNAM Transparency Unit. The request led to the examination of hundreds of documents, which confirmed extensive spending under the guise of representation costs, categorized as minor and unforeseen expenses. From January 2024 to April 2026, approximately 50,000 documents were reviewed, with 800 pages selected for analysis. During this period, the Radio UNAM administration recorded around $175,000 in food-related expenditures. In 2025 alone, the average monthly cost reached $95,000. Three months stood out due to their high expenses: May, June, and November, each surpassing $19,000. In May, a $5,867 invoice was issued at Mr. Pampas Coapa. On May 23, multiple charges were made, including a $1,300 cake purchase at Fresko Supermarket and three separate bills totaling $1066, $2,570, and $2,671 from Buenas Migas Restaurant. These transactions occurred within minutes of each other, indicating a large group meal. June saw a visit to Red Lobster, a seafood specialty restaurant, costing $2,440. Another $3,460 bill was generated at La Casa Gallega on June 8. A previous visit to Red Lobster in January 2025 had cost $3,114, making it one of the highest expenses recorded. In November, a $7,660.01 invoice was issued for food and beverages, while another $2,778.03 charge was made at El Camarón Guasaveño. The month also included a return visit to Buenas Migas for $1,813.01 and a $5,000 transaction attributed to Grupo Uruguayo Minas. On May 31, 2024, the day of Taibo's birthday, several small purchases were made, including $2,209.68 for snacks at Walmart, $111 for grapes, $263 for cheese and non-alcoholic drinks, and $237.50 for more cheese, soft drinks, and tea. Two birthday cakes were purchased at Soriana and City Market, totaling $4,816.46. This expense highlights the extent of personal indulgence covered by the university's funds.