May 17, 2026

Panama will face Brazil in a World Cup warm-up match on May 31 at 3:00 p.m. The game will be broadcast across TVMAX, TVN, TVN Pass, TVN Radio 96.5 FM and TVMAX Panamá on YouTube.

Panama’s business chamber backed government efforts to improve fiscal reputation but urged balance in a bill on economic substance and tax competitiveness. The debate is tied to Panama’s standing with international watchdogs and its appeal to investors.

Panama’s new law requires fast-food restaurants to offer water instead of sugary drinks in combo meals at no extra cost. Health officials support the move, but say it does not make these meals healthy on its own.

Martín Torrijos has launched UNE as a new political platform and said he is aiming for a 2029 run. He also proposed a plebiscite on the mine, putting a divisive national issue back at the center of debate.

Panama called for stronger participation from the Americas in World Health Organization decisions during debates on financing, governance and reform. The move highlights the country’s broader push for a more balanced role for Latin America in global health policy.

Panama Canal officials say Gatún Lake is at historically high levels and no transit limits are expected in 2026, but El Niño could pose risks in 2027. The warning highlights how climate patterns continue to shape one of Panama’s most important economic assets.

Ten people, including a child, were killed in an armed attack on a home in Puebla, Mexico, prompting a major security operation. Authorities have opened an investigation and are searching for the gunmen.

Taiwan’s president defended U.S. arms purchases after Donald Trump raised doubts about future sales following a visit to China. The episode adds to uncertainty in one of the most sensitive flashpoints in U.S.-China relations.

Panamanians are feeling the strain of higher everyday costs, with food and housing eating up more of wages and pensions. Location, lifestyle, and shopping choices now play a bigger role in whether monthly income goes far enough.

Manchester United beat Nottingham Forest 3-2 to secure third place in the Premier League, while Casemiro played his final home game for the club. Bruno Fernandes also matched the league’s single-season assist record with his 20th of the season.

Eight Palestinians, including three community kitchen workers, were killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza, adding to the territory’s mounting civilian toll. The killings underscore the fragility of humanitarian operations in the enclave.

A jury is hearing evidence on the 2019 La Joyita prison massacre, where a Bagdad gang split triggered a shootout that killed 15 inmates. The case highlights Panama’s wider prison security and organized crime problem.

April was Panama’s deadliest month of 2026 so far, with 62 homicides nationwide and the sharpest impact in Alcalde Díaz and San Miguelito. Authorities link the rise to drug-trafficking disputes and say they are reinforcing policing in the hardest-hit areas.

Panama and Costa Rica have escalated their trade dispute, with President Laura Fernández ordering international action over Panama’s restrictions on agricultural imports. The conflict now sits at the intersection of trade, diplomacy, and food-safety policy.

Panama finished fifth overall after a U19 win, ending its NORCECA campaign with a solid result. The placement offers a useful sign of progress for the country’s youth volleyball program.

Andrés Andrade played 90 minutes as LASK Linz won the Austrian Bundesliga, finishing a historic double after also lifting the Austrian Cup. The Panamanian defender was a key part of the club’s first league title since 1965.

Panama is pushing for more reliable financing at the World Health Organization, arguing that timely member contributions are essential for stability and planning. The stance highlights Panama’s broader interest in stronger global health coordination.

Panama’s return to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a major moment for the country’s football profile and national pride. The tournament’s North American setting could also help bring stronger regional fan support.

Alianza FC reached another Panamanian final after beating Veraguas United on penalties, setting up a showdown with bicampeón Plaza Amador. Coach Jair Palacios says discipline and belief have carried his team to the title match.

Peru has officially set a June 7 runoff between Keiko Fujimori and Roberto Sánchez after a long count confirmed the first-round results. The vote comes after a fragmented election marked by delays, disputes and widespread anti-establishment sentiment.