By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The provincial government of Negros Occidental has reportedly received numerous complaints from visitors of the Capitol Park and Lagoon days after it was reopened to the public.

Visitors are complaining over the present health protocols requiring them to wear face masks and face shields when exercising. They said they have difficulty in breathing due to the face mask and face shield requirements.

However, Renelo Lastierre, head of the provincial capitol’s Safety and Security Division, said it is “iron clad” stating they are unable to do anything about the complaints since they are only implementing the health policies introduced by the provincial government.

Lastierre added despite the complaints, they will still implement the health protocols that were put in place such as requiring visitors to wear face masks and face shields and required logins and hand washing at the main entry points.

The number of people allowed at the park is also limited to 50 and exercise groups are only limited to three people.

The Capitol Park and Lagoon was reopened last week following months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The three-hectare park is a popular venue for residents of Bacolod City and Negros Occidental to do their exercises such as jogging, Zumba, dances, and martial arts practice.

The park is also popular to families and couples who are going on a date./DGB, WDJ