Panama is considering a $1.50 charge on each container entering through its ports to help fund senior pensions. President José Raúl Mulino has distanced himself from the plan, adding pressure to the bill.
Panama’s Foreign Ministry met with the families of seven nationals detained in Cuba as the government continues diplomatic efforts to secure their return. The case has become a consular and humanitarian issue for Panamanian authorities.
President José Raúl Mulino addressed the retention of Panamanian-flagged vessels in China, extraordinary sessions in the National Assembly, and the pause in the bioethanol debate. The remarks highlighted key maritime, legislative, and energy issues on Panama’s agenda.
Panama’s National Assembly closed its legislative term with debate over bill 491, which would raise monthly payments for retirees and pensioners earning under $600. The proposal would be financed through a $1.50 charge per container entering the country through ports.
Chiriquí faces Bocas del Toro in Game 6 of the 2026 Béisbol Mayor final on Thursday night, with the series title still within reach for both sides. Bocas del Toro can win the championship, while Chiriquí needs a victory to keep the final alive.
IFARHU is preparing the PASE-U 2026 payment for the coming months and plans to deliver it through a new digital system. The change could streamline access to Panama’s school assistance program.
Panama is enhancing aircraft maintenance capabilities through support from the Puerto Rico National Guard. The partnership aims to strengthen technical readiness and improve the reliability of aviation operations.
President José Raúl Mulino has convened extraordinary sessions in the National Assembly to debate the Economic Substance bill after meeting with two caucuses. The proposal is expected to draw attention for its impact on Panama’s business and regulatory environment.
President José Raúl Mulino has rejected Bill 491, which seeks to raise container taxes to help fund seniors’ pensions. The proposal has no support from the Executive Branch or key maritime and economic agencies.
Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha said Panama’s government wants to position the country as a reliable partner with credibility. The strategy underscores the importance of trust to Panama’s diplomatic and economic standing.
President José Raúl Mulino blamed political noise and speculation for the stalled debate over a bill to add bioethanol to gasoline. He said Panama is losing jobs, investment, and an opportunity for agricultural development.
U.S. inflation rose to a three-year high in March as surging gasoline prices tied to the Iran war added fresh pressure on the economy. The spike may delay Federal Reserve rate cuts and could ripple through global markets.
Three people were detained in Panama in an investigation into alleged peculado involving missing funds at IPT Don Bosco. The case centers on money from student registrations, welfare, and self-managed income.
President José Raúl Mulino defended Panama’s discretionary fund use, saying it is helping families with urgent medical needs, disasters, and other emergencies. He also tied the message to Labor Day, stressing job creation and economic development.
Marco Rubio has warned China after ship detentions tied to the Panama shipping dispute, calling Western Hemisphere sovereignty non-negotiable. The tension spotlights Panama Canal security and its global trade importance.
Panama City has launched a school recycling plan that will reach more than 12,000 students and expand to 180 schools. The initiative aims to strengthen environmental habits in classrooms and beyond.
Two former Meduca officials and one private citizen were detained in Panama City over an alleged $124,000 embezzlement scheme at the Don Bosco Technical Institute. The case is part of Operation Pupitre and will next move before a guarantee judge.
Chiriquí beat Bocas del Toro in Game 5 of the 2026 Béisbol Mayor final, extending the series. The matchup turned tense in the eighth inning after a confusing play sparked a benches-clearing moment.
Panama’s firefighters have responded to 883 traffic accidents nationwide so far this year, with speeding, distraction, alcohol, fatigue, and mechanical failures among the main causes. The figures highlight the ongoing road safety challenge facing drivers and families across the country.
Iran’s supreme leader has vowed to protect the country’s nuclear and missile programs, rejecting U.S. pressure as Washington seeks a wider deal tied to a fragile ceasefire. The confrontation adds to tensions in a volatile region with global implications.
