A Cuban posted a video on TikTok proudly showcasing his Toyota Corolla alongside the solar panels installed at his home in Cuba, and social media exploded: over 213,400 views, 841 comments, and an ongoing debate that continues to grow.
The clip, shared by the user @1991estaca, shows the gleaming car parked in front of the house. However, there was one detail that stole all the attention: the tiled and zinc roof of the house, which starkly contrasted with the car and the investment in solar energy.
The question was repeated over and over in the comments: "And the house?"
"My God, that house is falling apart; it wouldn't survive a hurricane," wrote one user. Another person quipped, "Not even water to wash the car, but hey, I have a modern car, a solar panel, a great chain, and a house with a tiled roof."
The most supported comment captured the sentiment of many: "It's not to criticize anyone; if you feel happy with your car, that's great, but wouldn't it have been better to fix your house? I prefer to have a nice home over a car."
Others were even more direct: "What about the zinc roof?", "First comfort in the house, then a car", or "There's no gas for the toy."
The expression "pan con bistec"—commonly used among Cubans to describe someone who boasts about achievements while maintaining obvious contradictions—came up repeatedly in the discussion. The creator of the video responded unapologetically: "And proud of it."
In response to the criticism, the user defended the state of his home: "My life, that house only lacks a plaque, but inside it has everything, there are three rooms and electricity 24 hours a day." He added later: "I don’t pay attention to these envious people. Here in the U.S., no house has a plaque and we all live in rentals. I'm sure those who criticize have nothing. I stay focused on my own and I’m going for more."
That comment confirmed what many were already suspecting on social media: the protagonist resides in the United States and the vehicle was sent or taken to Cuba later.
Not all the feedback was negative. Many users came to his defense. "Cubans don’t change. That’s why I don’t publish my accomplishments, nor will I ever. What’s so hard about being happy for someone else?" wrote a supporter. Another added, "People can’t stand seeing others happy."
The context amplifies the controversy even further. In the midst of power outages lasting up to 22 hours a day in Cuba, solar panels have become a lifeline for thousands of families. At the same time, importing a Toyota Corolla to the island can cost over $14,500 when factoring in shipping and tariffs, a figure that is entirely beyond the reach of most Cubans.
The housing crisis also weighs on the debate. Approximately 40% of homes in Cuba are in fair or poor condition, and zinc or fiber cement roofs remain common throughout much of the country.
Beyond the car or the panels, the video ultimately revealed a much deeper discussion: the ongoing tension between the achievements of the Cuban diaspora and the harsh reality experienced on the island.
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