Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
During the McAllen Housing Commission Scholarship Ceremony, Hidalgo County District Attorney Toribio “Terry” Palacios delivered an encouraging and heartfelt message to students and families gathered to celebrate academic success. Now serving as the county’s top prosecutor, Palacios brought personal experience and professional insight to his remarks, urging students to pursue careers with passion and resilience.
Addressing the crowd, Palacios congratulated the 15 scholarship recipients and thanked their parents for their dedication. He shared his own story of growing up as the youngest of 12 children in a working-class family. He described how his father relied on his labor in the fields as a source of income. That early experience under the hot sun motivated him to pursue a different path through education.
Palacios emphasized the importance of finding meaningful work. “You have to desire to do what you do,” he said. “Love what you do. Life will have many obstacles, but anything that doesn’t break you will make you stronger.” He pointed to examples like McAllen City Commissioner Joaquin “JJ” Zamora and business leader Alonzo Cantu as individuals who lead with purpose and discipline.
Reflecting on his legal career, which includes 30 years of practicing criminal defense before running for DA, Palacios stressed the value of showing up early, working hard, and supporting those around you. “If our prosecutors are in court, I’m with them,” he said. “I love what I do, and that’s what you need to do—find what you love and give it your all.”
He closed by reminding students that help is always within reach. Whether they need advice, mentorship, or someone to listen, Palacios encouraged them to reach out to community leaders and family. “We are a community, and you are part of it. Congratulations again.”
His message inspired and reminded us that anything is possible with determination, support, and a commitment to our goals.
Palacios, sworn in as District Attorney on January 2, 2023, was elected in November 2022. Before becoming DA, he served 27 years as the Municipal Court Judge for the City of Edinburg. His long-standing public service has made him a well-known figure in the region, and his transition into the DA role marks a continued commitment to justice and community leadership.
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