The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
IDAAN suspended drinking water service in parts of East Panama due to work at the Pacora treatment plant. The interruption affects sectors of the capital’s eastern area served by that system.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance has registered more than 240,000 Cepanim beneficiaries and begun printing the certificates. The process marks another step in managing interest payments tied to delayed obligations.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance says more than 240,000 Cepanim beneficiaries have registered, and printing of the certificates has begun. The process now moves into a new phase as the government prepares the negotiable payment certificates.
Abner Benaim visited Colón for a cineforum at the Cacco featuring Paraíso Tropical and a public conversation about Panamanian cinema. The event brought audiences and the filmmaker together to discuss the challenges of making films in Panama.
Residents of Guarumal in Caimitillo now have drinking water again after waiting up to 30 years. The service returned following the inauguration of the Anillo Hidráulico Norte.
A new commission has been installed to evaluate candidates for community judge posts across Panama. The body includes one Ministry of Government representative and two members of civil society.
Enrique Riquelme’s business ties to Panama have resurfaced as he is discussed as a possible challenger in Real Madrid’s election process. His companies have expanded in Panama through solar investments and past work linked to the Panama Canal expansion.
President José Raúl Mulino defended the growth of Panama’s state payroll, linking it to schools, hospitals and security needs. Economists Ernesto Bazán and Carlos Araúz said the increase worsens the deficit and does not prove the state is becoming more efficient.
Police in Panama City arrested another man suspected in the March killing of a merchant in Herrera province. The case continues to move forward as investigators pursue those believed involved.
Acodeco detected alleged misleading advertising and expired products at Wow Depot, a recently opened warehouse store in Panama. The case underscores consumer protection enforcement in the country’s retail sector.
Panama lawmakers questioned the National Assembly’s operating and payroll spending after approval of a $26 million transfer to the legislature. The decision has renewed debate over transparency and public spending priorities.
Doctors at Colón’s Hospital Manuel Amador Guerrero performed the facility’s first craniotomy for a brain tumor on a woman over 50 who arrived after seizures. The surgery marks a milestone for specialized care in the province.
Dredging work is underway in Changuinola to clear a blocked drainage channel that was affecting several communities. The cleanup is intended to improve water flow and reduce flooding risk in Bocas del Toro.
A senior U.S. economic official met with Panamanian authorities in Panama City to discuss strengthening economic and energy alliances. The visit highlights Panama’s role as a strategic partner in regional trade and cooperation.
Twelve people are on trial in Panama over the 2019 La Joyita prison massacre, which left 13 inmates dead and 11 wounded. The case has revived scrutiny of the country’s penitentiary system.
Chiriquí will celebrate its 177th anniversary in San Félix with a program that includes tributes to people who have left a mark on the province. Authorities say the event is ready and aims to strengthen community identity.
U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg met with top Panamanian officials in Panama City during a regional tour focused on energy security and critical minerals. The talks highlighted continued U.S.-Panama cooperation on trade, supply chains, and shared economic growth.
President José Raúl Mulino ruled out changes to his Cabinet and defended the expansion of the state payroll, rejecting claims that the new posts are unnecessary. His comments reinforce a message of continuity as his administration enters its second year.
MIDA’s canine unit seized 286.19 kilograms of animal and plant products from passengers’ luggage at Tocumen Airport in April. The operation underscores Panama’s border controls designed to protect agriculture and biosecurity.
President José Raúl Mulino addressed the situation at Unachi and the reported resignation of rector Etelvina de Bonagas while urging that water shortages not be politicized. His comments came during the inauguration of the Anillo Hidráulico Norte.