Drug Enforcement: Costa Rica extradited cartel figures Gilbert Bell Fernández (“Macho Coca”) and Gabriel Lozano Bonilla (“Compadre”) to the U.S., where they face federal cocaine trafficking charges in New York, with authorities linking them to the Gulf Clan. Economy & Jobs: As the colón strengthens, Costa Rican manufacturers say they’ve paused investments and cut staff, citing the exchange rate as the top competitiveness threat. Diplomacy: President Laura Fernández recalled her top envoy in Nicaragua for consultations amid worsening human rights conditions and alleged transnational espionage. Labor Rights: Education unions SEC and ANDE filed an ILO complaint, saying new rules restrict collective bargaining for public education workers. Environment: Environmental groups put Corcovado National Park on “red alert” over sewage discharges, failing infrastructure, and chronic underfunding. Public Safety: Search teams are still looking for a missing hiker in Chirripó National Park. Culture & Food: Escazú hosted the National Tapa de Dulce fair celebrating ancestral cane sugar traditions. Local Life: San José’s mayor says about 2,300 people are living on the streets and is urging urgent government action. Health & Climate: Doctors warn El Niño could raise risks for cardiovascular, respiratory, skin, kidney and allergy problems, especially for vulnerable groups. Sports: The World Surf League returns to Costa Rica at Playa Hermosa for the Garabito Surf City PRO 2026.