Panama’s budget hearings have revealed that the State owes millions in unpaid seniority bonuses to former public employees, with entities requesting $182.2 million for 2027 but the MEF recommending only $82.3 million — and no complete tally of the total debt yet existing.
After nearly a decade since the idea was first floated and two years of new studies, the Panama-David railway remains in the planning stage, with the Mulino administration expanding its scope and updating the route.
A Panama-flagged bulk carrier, the First Margaux, collided with the Chinese fishing vessel Luqing Yuanyu 108 near Singapore on Sunday. No victims have been confirmed, and maritime authorities, including the Panama Maritime Authority, are investigating.
President José Raúl Mulino vetoed and returned to the National Assembly a bill creating new discounts for retirees and pensioners, citing grounds of inexequibility. Lawmakers must now revise the measure or let it lapse.
Minister Julio Moltó says Panama needs to reactivate its economy, citing job losses and uncertainty among merchants and residents affected by the shutdown of the Minera Panamá copper mine.
Businessman and former vice presidential candidate Michael Chen says Colon contributes 18% of Panama’s economy while receiving a fraction in return, and predicts the province will become the country’s second capital. His Sabores de Colon festival drew over 50,000 attendees, far surpassing expectations.
A proposed tourism incentives law before Panama’s National Assembly raises investment thresholds and shortens tax breaks, sparking debate over whether small and rural hoteliers can compete with large chains for the benefits.
A leading logistics analyst argues Panama must integrate its Canal, ports, rail, and free zones under a reformed, world-class Panama Maritime Authority to become a true International Maritime and Logistics Center. The call follows La Prensa’s 2026 Maritime, Logistics and Port Forum.
A man was found dead inside a vehicle in La Pitahaya, La Chorrera, after an alleged kidnapping that began in Montelimar. Two suspects are in custody as authorities investigate.
