Panama’s organized transport sector is preparing its response after the repeal of a decree tied to platform drivers and claims of unfair competition. The move intensifies an ongoing conflict over how digital ride services should be regulated.
Transport operators protested outside the National Assembly in Panama, backing regulation for digital ride-hailing platforms. They also demanded an apology from Deputy Ernesto Cedeño over his comments.
Retirees without internet access in Bocas del Toro went to the MEF to register for CEPANIM 2026 after the online platform crashed under heavy traffic. The case highlights the need for accessible in-person options alongside digital government services.
Health authorities in Coclé are intensifying vaccination efforts as respiratory illnesses rise in the province. The push comes ahead of the Americas Vaccination Week, set for April 23-30.
Panama is under two weather alerts as high temperatures and fire risk increase, while rain is expected in some parts of the country. The mixed forecast underscores the need for caution across different regions.
The IMA will hold agro-fairs across Panama on Tuesday, April 21, starting at 8:00 a.m. The sales aim to offer cheaper food products to local consumers.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance said the CEPANIM platform remains active and shared official access links after reports of problems during high demand. The move was aimed at directing users to verified channels and improving access.
Panama’s baseball game against Peru was featured live as part of the 2026 South American Youth Games coverage. The matchup put the country’s youth team in the spotlight during a major regional competition.
Panama delivered a dominant start in baseball at the 2026 South American Youth Games, giving the host nation an early boost in a marquee sport. The result strengthens momentum for Panama’s youth program as the tournament continues.
Dan Brown visited key Panama City landmarks, praised President José Raúl Mulino, and said he was impressed by the country and its people. His stops highlighted the Canal, Casco Antiguo, and Mercado de Mariscos.
The New Star Princess completed its first Panama Canal crossing with about 4,300 guests aboard, highlighting the canal’s appeal as a major cruise experience. The transit featured the ship’s open-air decks and historic lock passages.
Panama is promoting a broader early childhood care model that goes beyond daycare to include stronger support for children’s development and family needs. The approach reflects a wider push to improve education readiness and social protection.
Panama City Mayor Mayer Mizrachi hired Randy Abdul Aparicio García after the young man said his height had kept him from getting work. The move followed repeated social media appeals and a meeting at city hall.
Taxi drivers blocked access to Panama’s National Assembly in support of Executive Decree 10, which regulates digital transport platforms. The protest followed a lawsuit by Deputy Ernesto Cedeño against the measure.
A robbery at the Colón terminal has raised fears among drivers and passengers on the Expreso Panamá-Colón Centroamérica route. The theft of a driver’s earnings and documents has renewed concern about safety at a major transport hub.
Panama repealed a decree regulating ride-hailing apps after backlash from drivers and users, amid fresh scrutiny over ATTT official Justo Castañeda’s transport-sector ties. The dispute has reignited debate over the country’s concession-based cupo system and who benefits from it.
A fifth suspect has surrendered in the Chitré murder case involving an Indian merchant. Ortiz Palma is expected to face a guarantees hearing in the coming hours.
Panama is part of live baseball coverage linked to the 2026 South American Youth Games, highlighting the country’s strong youth baseball tradition. The Peru vs. Panama matchup adds another regional stage for Panamanian players to compete.
Costa Rica has backed Panama in a growing dispute involving China-linked shipping interests, adding regional weight to a sensitive maritime issue. The clash highlights Panama’s strategic position in global trade through the Panama Canal.
Beneficiaries of CEPANIM faced platform failures on Monday after being unable to register or upload documents, prompting visits to the MEF in Panama City. The disruption highlights the growing dependence of public services on reliable digital systems.