Protesters are demanding to be allowed to work to revive the economy of coastal areas.

With peaceful demonstrations at 11:00 am in six coastal areas of our country (Tamarindo, Jacó, Manuel Antonio, Puerto Viejo, Santa Teresa and Pavones), protests were held in favor of the safe opening of national beaches, in addition to the request for an activation of the coastal areas that have been greatly affected by the economic crisis generated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are marching to raise awareness and generate more jobs in coastal areas that have really been affected by the lack of tourism,” said Ariel Gutiérrez, a national surfer.

The various marches were attended by hotel owners, restaurant owners, local merchants, and national surfers, all of whom joined together in the hope of being heard by the municipalities of each region where the peaceful demonstrations took place.

“We are demonstrating peacefully because our rights are being violated, and we are here supporting the people and all those who are experiencing hardship,” said Carlos Muñoz, a national surfer.

All the marches proceeded normally; however, at the end of the march in the Tamarindo sector, the police arrested the experienced national surfer Andrea Díaz, who was at the march like all the other citizens and for unknown reasons was arrested by the authorities.

In addition, people were reported detained in the Mal País area for allegedly resisting arrest.

In the Puerto Viejo sector, a "Paddle Out" event was held in the morning to support the opening of beaches and to oppose racism; however, the demonstration scheduled for 11 a.m. did not take place due to possible social criticism.

Written by: Enrique Hernández

General Management: Marco Montero