Parque La Libertad Layoffs Prompt Community Protest in Costa Rica

Communities surrounding Parque La Libertad are preparing a peaceful musical protest on Sunday after government budget cuts led to 15 layoffs and temporary salary reductions for another 30 employees. The “tamboreada,” or public drum gathering, will begin at 10:30 a.m. on August 30 at the park, located between Desamparados, La Unión and Curridabat. Organizers are inviting families to bring drums, musical instruments or household items such as pots, pans, buckets and spoons.Musician and cultural organizer José Andrés Alfaro called the gathering after the Fundación Parque Metropolitano La Libertad announced major staffing and operational changes. Alfaro’s community drum-circle project was developed through the park. He said the demonstration is intended to defend the artistic, educational and environmental programs that nearby communities have helped build over almost two decades. The dispute began after the Ministry of Culture and Youth reduced the public funding transferred to the foundation that operates the park. The reduction represents 9.5% of the park’s total 2026 budget, but because it was imposed during the year, it removes 22.83% of the funding expected between August and December. Funding planned for 2027 will be 13.38% lower than the amount originally budgeted for 2026. The foundation responded by eliminating 15 positions, equal to about 20% of its staff. Another 30 employees accepted temporary salary adjustments in an effort to preserve additional jobs. Several programs are now being reorganized. They include technology education for girls, science and engineering activities, technical training in design and digital fields, small-business support, computer courses, social circus, community gardens and programs promoting healthy lifestyles for older adults. The foundation said contractual projects involving public agencies, private organizations and international partners will continue. Parque La Libertad will also remain open to the public at its usual hours, with access continuing to be free. Still, community members fear that fewer employees and less operating money will weaken programs serving children, young people, entrepreneurs and older adults in surrounding neighborhoods. Parque La Libertad reported nearly 500,000 visits annually, following growth of more than 60% over the past four years. More than 60,000 people took part in its training programs during 2025. The Ministry of Culture has defended the cuts. Culture Minister Jorge Rodríguez Vives said a government review found administrative problems and costs that needed to be reduced, including senior management salaries. Rodríguez said the government is not closing the park or eliminating its services. The ministry maintains that the changes are intended to reduce administrative spending while keeping community programs in operation. The foundation, however, said the speed and size of the cuts forced it to reduce staff and reorganize services immediately. It is now looking for additional private donors and partner organizations to help recover some of the lost capacity. Sunday’s demonstration is expected to remain inside the park and take the form of a family and cultural event rather than a traditional march. Organizers are encouraging participants to use music and social media to show how the park has affected their communities.