Restaurants and shops impacted by protests
Juan Guerrero, 38, was serving drinks at a pizzeria a few blocks away from the governor's mansion when protests intensified on Monday.
The bartender, his colleagues and several patrons quickly barricaded inside the restaurant and let some protesters take shelter in the building.
"It was packed," Guerrero said. When the tear gas canisters began to fly, Guerrero said they had to close the doors, but one eventually found its way inside the building through the open indoor garden.
Yulissa Contreras, a server at the restaurant, said her family couldn't believe she was in the middle of the unrest.
"When my family saw the images on international television they thought it was something happening in Venezuela, not here," she said.
The protests have forced businesses in the area to temporarily close or adjust their hours. The pizzeria has remained open for fewer hours in the past days and plans to start closing early if the unrest continues.
Caballeira is also preparing for more protests. He has purchased a trauma kit and stocked up on water bottles and soap to help protesters if more tear gas is deployed again. And he's discussed what to do in case gunfire or a massive fire breaks out.
"Where should we put people?" Caballeira said.
Puerto Rico governor says protests have 'not gone unnoticed'
Hours after police officers sprayed tear gas on protestors on Wednesday night, Rosselló said he respects the people's right to protest and their actions have "not gone unnoticed."
In a statement posted on Twitter, Rosselló said he's asked for the Puerto Rican people's forgiveness and will continue to do so.
"I recognize the challenge that I have before me because of the recent controversies, but I firmly believe that it is possible to restore confidence and that we will be able, after this painful process, to achieve reconciliation."
He also said "I have the commitment, stronger than ever, to carry out the public policy."
The governor has previously said he would not step down.
More protests expected Friday
Several groups, including representatives from the labor movement and unions, are calling for more protests.
Marches and "cacerolazos" -- protests with people banging pots and pans -- were expected across the island Friday and through the weekend. A massive march at the Luis A. Ferré Express has been planned for Sunday.
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