The reaffirmation of Ricardo Martinelli’s New Business conviction strengthens the case against his persecution narrative and puts fresh pressure on his asylum claim. The ruling also raises broader questions about rule of law and equal justice in Panama.
Chiriquí and Bocas del Toro meet again in the 2026 national baseball final, renewing a rivalry that has decided several Panamanian championships. Both teams arrive with strong records, star contributors and a history of close postseason battles.
Panama’s 311 citizen hotline will move to new operator SITMAS on May 1 after an open bidding process. Officials say the change will improve service, reduce wait times, and end years of direct contracting.
Panama is facing renewed debate over why political salaries often outpace teachers’ pay while public schools continue to rely on patchwork repairs. The discussion has also revived calls for a more structured annual maintenance plan.
CADE 2026 opened in Panama with a debate on OECD standards, trust, and the reforms needed to attract investment and create jobs. The forum marks 60 years of CADE as APEDE pushes a long-term competitiveness agenda.
More than 91,000 customers were affected by a major power outage in Panama City and Panamá Oeste. The interruption hit a densely populated and economically important part of the country.
Authorities seized eight firearms inside La Joya Penitentiary in Panama City, and one death was also reported. The incident highlights ongoing security concerns in Panama’s prison system.
The U.S. Army is preparing to create an AI-based autonomous warfighting force in Panama, underscoring the country’s strategic role in regional security. The move highlights how advanced military technology is increasingly shaping defense planning in Latin America.
Panama City neighborhoods Bella Vista and Betania rank among the top areas for vehicle theft in Panama, with Chiriquí and Panamá Oeste also standing out. The pattern highlights a nationwide crime problem affecting both urban centers and key transit corridors.
Panama’s National Police arrested people involved in a shooting near Doleguita School in Chiriquí’s Dolega district. No injuries or deaths were reported after the midday confrontation.
Panama condemned the seizure of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the incident threatens maritime security in one of the world’s most important shipping routes. The move underscores Panama’s broader interest in protecting global navigation and trade.
A Villa Lucre family is turning part of its home into a nature-friendly space by cultivating areas that also support local wildlife. The effort shows how conservation can start in urban households.
Panama condemned the illegal seizure of a vessel flying its flag in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. The incident highlights the country’s role as the world’s largest ship registry.
An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed journalist Amal Khalil and wounded Zeinab Faraj in a targeted double-tap attack. The incident underscores the growing danger to civilians and reporters near the Israel-Lebanon frontier.
War-related disruption in the Middle East is pushing more cargo toward the Panama Canal, raising demand for transit slots. One LNG vessel even paid $4 million to skip the queue and move faster.
A cocaine seizure in the United Kingdom has renewed concern over Panama’s role in international drug trafficking routes. The case highlights the pressure on Panamanian ports to strengthen cargo screening and anti-corruption controls.
As Panama’s companies accelerate AI adoption, human skills such as adaptability, emotional awareness and relationship-building are emerging as key competitive advantages. The focus is shifting from using more tools to building healthier, more resilient teams.
Residents and merchants along Vía España are weighing steps to oppose a road expansion plan in Panama City. The dispute highlights concerns over the project’s effect on homes, businesses, and daily traffic.
A power failure cut electricity to several neighborhoods in Panama City late Wednesday night, affecting areas including Vía España, Don Bosco and Brisas del Golf. ENSA said it was working with the National Dispatch Center to restore service gradually.
Panama’s National Assembly reopened debate on Bill 443, which would require a 10% ethanol blend in gasoline, as lawmakers raised concerns about cost, legality and market effects. The discussion will continue Thursday after two minority reports urged rejection of the measure.