A hospital in Veraguas has added high-precision surgical technology that will expand access to specialized operations for nearly one million people across five provinces. The upgrade strengthens healthcare capacity in Panama’s interior.
A church in Chame held an emotional farewell service for Pastor Benjamín López and his family after a fatal traffic accident. The gathering drew mourners together in prayer and remembrance.
Rain and thunderstorms are forecast for Panama this weekend, with unsettled weather expected in the interior and the metropolitan area. The conditions could affect travel, outdoor plans, and daily routines.
Panama’s National Police defended its ballistic vests after the death of officer Albis Espinoza in El Chorrillo, saying no vest offers total body protection. The government is also reviewing the force’s equipment stock, including expired vests and a planned new purchase.
Federal prosecutors have released surveillance footage showing an armed man rushing through security in an alleged plot targeting President Donald Trump at the White House Correspondents’ dinner. The case highlights major U.S. security concerns with possible ripple effects for Panama and the region.
The United States has warned shipping companies not to pay fees tied to transit through the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the Gulf remain high. The move underscores the risk to global energy and shipping flows, with indirect implications for Panama’s trade-linked economy.
Panama observed May Day with demonstrations that put labor concerns, wages and working conditions in the spotlight. The annual rallies remain an important outlet for unions and civic groups to push for policy changes.
Panama’s 2026 Fiscal Lottery draws will take place in the second half of May, with provinces grouped by region. The program aims to encourage receipt collection and support tax compliance.
Damaris Young says Panama’s record medal haul at the 2026 South American Youth Games reflects stronger management, better preparation and a lasting sports legacy. She also warned that the country must protect its investment and keep improving athlete conditions.
Panama will face Brazil in a World Cup warm-up friendly on May 31 as coach Thomas Christiansen targets a team that can compete and advance from its group in 2026. The match will be broadcast on TVMAX, TVN, TVN Pass, and YouTube.
Procedures at Panama’s Electoral Tribunal multiservice kiosks rose 53%, with certificate requests driving more than 60,000 transactions. The increase highlights the growing role of assisted-service tools in public administration.
Former U.S. Rep. David Rivera was convicted on all counts in a case involving secret lobbying for Venezuela’s Maduro government and money laundering charges. The verdict highlights U.S. scrutiny of covert foreign influence operations tied to Latin America.
San Miguelito has imposed a curfew in Belisario Frías and Arnulfo Arias, with the National Police setting up control points to enforce the restriction. People who violate the rule without a valid reason face sanctions.
The European Union’s trade deal with Mercosur has taken provisional effect, creating a giant free trade area spanning Europe and South America. The agreement could reshape trade flows, investment and export opportunities across the Atlantic.
Panama’s national soccer team is setting up a local base camp for the FIFA World Cup as part of its tournament preparation. The move is meant to give the squad a stable training and recovery hub during the competition.
Insured patients can now access CSS health services in Panama by presenting only their personal ID card. The change aims to speed up entry and simplify public care access.
Frozen shrimp led Panama’s exports in the first quarter of 2026, helping push total goods exports up 0.6%. The result highlights the strength of the country’s seafood sector.
Rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are putting new focus on the Panama Canal as a strategic trade route in the U.S.-China rivalry. For Panama, the canal remains both an economic pillar and a key geopolitical asset.
Panamanian authorities seized 194 suspected drug packages hidden in a container from Jamaica that was heading to Ireland. The bust adds to 3,307 illicit packages confiscated at ports in Panama so far in 2026.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was grilled in Congress over the Trump administration’s war with Iran and a record defense budget request. The hearings highlighted rising questions about strategy, spending, and global fallout.
