By Wendy Anders

The Ministry of Health yesterday delivered an ultimatum to Manuel Antonio National Park officials: Comply with health orders, or face closure on Monday, said Protur, a pro-tourism business association based in Quepos, Puntarenas, the town adjacent to the park.

A closure of the park at the height of tourist season could damage the country’s international tourism standings, as Manuel Antonio is highly sought out for its surrounding luxury hotels with breathtaking beach views, and more so, its pristine beaches flanked by tropical forest and abundant wildlife.

The health agency has been awaiting compliance with a list of requirements that include improving ticket sale infrastructure and procedures to avoid excessively long lines of late, said Boris Marchegiani, president of PROTUR, and representative of the Municipality of Quepos for the Manuel Antonio National Park trust.

“This is a matter of respect: when an international tourist arrives, he certainly sees beautiful nature, but, will it be in accordance with what he is paying, and will it measure up to what is being said to people worldwide?” said the Social-Christian Luis Vásquez about the health closure order.

In addition, the legislator told local media that there is no drinking water available in the park, which he feels is reason enough to close the site: “You have to do it because if anything happens to a tourist … we are going to be affected internationally,” he said.

The numerous problems in facilities and administration at the Manuel Antonio National Park have been repeatedly denounced by Karla Prendas, legislator from the National Liberation Party (PLN).