Cuban YouTuber Lino García, known as “The Cuban Creator,” was interrupted by a security guard while conducting an interview near the National Capitol in Havana. In the video that was halted, García was asking Erick Lacal Ferrer, a Cuban living abroad who was visiting the island, about the qualities that define his compatriots. Lacal Ferrer responded with “charisma.”
However, at that moment, a security guard approached, gesturing for them to move away. “I am Cuban but live abroad. However, these people don’t like being charismatic; they are like this because the government forces them to be,” said Lacal Ferrer when the guard interrupted them. “What a sadness, really! Such a beautiful country, and they are forced to be like this. They are a bunch of idiots, truly,” he added, as a police officer then stepped in to prevent them from filming.
“Me? What’s going on with me now?” the young man can be heard saying, as he told the officer that there were no signs around the Capitol indicating that filming was prohibited. “Nobody can go inside. We are explaining what is established,” said the officer, apparently referring to a restricted perimeter around the area.
This is not the first time a similar incident has occurred near the iconic Havana Capitol, a landmark and since 2015, the seat of the National Assembly of Cuba. At the end of January, a family faced a similar situation while trying to take a photograph in front of the Capitol. In that case, the security guard warned them not to take photos and threatened to call the police.
In the viral video, a child is seen sitting on the Capitol steps accompanied by two women and a man, completing the family scene. When they attempted to take a photo, a security guard approached to prevent them. Despite this, one of the women hugged the child and took the photo, exchanging words with the guard. The woman fearlessly responded that he could call the police, but they were not doing anything wrong.
FAQs on Filming Regulations Near Havana's Capitol
Given the recurring incidents involving filming near Havana's Capitol, many have questions about the regulations and their implications. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Is filming prohibited near Havana's Capitol?
Authorities often enforce restrictions around the Capitol, but there are no clear signs indicating that filming is explicitly prohibited. The enforcement can be arbitrary and inconsistent.
What should tourists know about filming in Cuba?
Tourists should be aware that filming and taking photos in certain areas might attract attention from security personnel. It is advisable to seek permission or be discreet to avoid confrontations.
Has the Cuban government addressed these incidents?
The government has not officially addressed these specific incidents. However, actions by security personnel suggest a controlled approach to managing public spaces and media.