Panama’s tourism sector grew 17.3% in the first quarter of 2026, generating more than $2 billion in economic impact. The Tourism Authority says it aims to top 2025’s results.
CSS says the Complejo Hospitalario’s laboratories continue operating with full coverage for emergencies and hospitalizations, and more than 80% for outpatient care. The clarification comes amid concerns about a possible reagent shortage.
A Panama appeals court upheld a ruling that declined to impose precautionary measures on nine suspects in the Ifarhu embezzlement case. The investigation has already led to 39 charges and centers on alleged irregularities in economic aid programs.
The Panamanian Football Federation has handed goalkeeper José Calderón a six-month provisional suspension while it investigates events from the LPF match between Alianza FC and Sporting San Miguelito. The case has intensified scrutiny over competition integrity after a controversial play in Rommel Fernández Stadium.
Panama nearly reached one million visitors in the first quarter of 2026, boosted by Carnival, Copa Airlines’ Stopover program and international events. Officials say the surge generated more than $2 billion in economic impact.
The Panamanian Football Federation has issued a provisional suspension to José Calderón. The move comes as Veraguas United and Alianza FC prepare for their semifinal second leg on May 16.
Retirees and pensioners in Colón blocked roads to demand approval of Bill 491, which would raise payments for people receiving less than B/.600 a month. The protest highlights ongoing pressure for pension reform in Panama.
More than 400 women in custody were transferred to the new La Esmeralda rehabilitation center in Panama. The move highlights ongoing efforts to organize female incarceration around rehabilitation and facility management.
Haiti’s prime minister says the country may not be stable enough to hold a presidential election by August as gang violence escalates. The crisis is worsening hospital evacuations and deepening fears about the state’s ability to govern.
A grieving mother is demanding justice after her 14-year-old son was killed by multiple gunshots in Colón. The case has renewed concern over violence in the province.
The EU and UK have imposed new sanctions on Russian officials and institutions accused of deporting and indoctrinating Ukrainian children during the war. The move adds pressure on Moscow over one of the conflict’s most sensitive humanitarian issues.
Panama’s AIG announced new measures to strengthen cybersecurity in public institutions amid rising threats and cyberattacks. The move highlights the growing importance of protecting government systems and digital services.
Panama’s Authority for Government Innovation issued a resolution requiring government institutions to follow cybersecurity practices to help protect digital infrastructure from rising cyberattacks. The measure aims to strengthen public-sector defenses and improve consistency across agencies.
A Swedish national convicted in Panama for money laundering has resurfaced in connection with offshore financial services and New Zealand-based platforms. The case revives scrutiny of Panama’s role in international shell-company networks.
Health officials in Bocas del Toro are tracing 78 contacts linked to a Dutch traveler who tested positive for measles. Twenty-eight people have already been located and are being monitored.
The Biomuseo in Panama has opened new vacancies for security and visitor services, reinforcing staffing at one of the capital’s top cultural attractions. The hiring move highlights the museum’s role in tourism, education and local employment.
Panama’s Education Ministry is investigating a suspected fake diploma network after more than 200 teachers resigned or left their posts amid credential fraud allegations. Authorities have filed 141 complaints and seven charges so far.
Panama is advancing its One Health strategy to link human, animal, environmental, and food safety priorities. Health Minister Fernando Boyd Galindo said COVID-19 highlighted how interconnected those areas are.
A fire at the municipal landfill in Montijo has burned for two days, prompting ongoing mitigation efforts from local authorities. Residents say toxic smoke from the site is affecting the area.
Panama will play Brazil in a World Cup warm-up friendly on May 31 at 3:00 p.m. The match will be broadcast on TVMAX, TVN, TVN Pass, and TVMAX PANAMÁ’s YouTube channel.