The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Panama’s Social Security Fund has acquired three robotic surgery systems to expand tele-surgery and bring advanced care closer to patients in the provinces. The equipment will be installed in Panama City, Herrera, and Chiriquí.
A forecast pointing to El Niño conditions is renewing concerns about drought pressure on the Panama Canal, which depends on freshwater lakes to operate its locks. The outlook highlights how climate patterns can affect transit capacity and Panama’s wider economy.
Panama City is hosting the Maritime Convention of the Americas 2026 at the Megapolis Convention Center, with President José Raúl Mulino set to attend. The event highlights the country’s central role in regional shipping and logistics.
Hantavirus cases linked to the MV Hondius have climbed to nine, with health officials tracing contacts in Europe, Africa and Asia. Five infections have now been confirmed by laboratory tests.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog sent a message to children in Panama urging them to be proud of their Jewish identity and stand tall. The remarks underscore the ties between Israel and Panama’s Jewish community.
ANATI says Panama will move ahead with digital land titling efforts as only 35% of the country has been cadastral. The plan is meant to improve control over national lands and reduce irregularities.
Panama has recorded more than 200 surname-order reversal cases since 2015, with most involving foreign residents, especially Brazilian families. The trend highlights how naming traditions can shape civil registry procedures.
The National Ballet of Panama is presenting the full version of El Corsario for the first time in the country, with performances at Teatro Anayansi from May 7 to 9. The production features international creative direction, the Panama Philharmonic Orchestra and locally made costumes and props.
Panamanian authorities are reminding drivers how to navigate roundabouts safely, stressing that exiting from the inner lane can be especially dangerous. The guidance aims to reduce collisions and improve traffic flow.
Two teenagers, ages 15 and 17, were detained after a robbery involving an elderly couple on Balboa Avenue in Panama City. The case has renewed concern over street crime and the safety of older adults in the capital.
A violent attack in Chiriquí left one person dead and a woman injured, marking the province’s eighth homicide of 2026. The case adds to growing concern over security in western Panama.
Panama is expected to see afternoon showers and heavier downpours this Thursday, with rain likely to develop after the morning hours. The weather pattern could affect commuting and outdoor plans across the country.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog made the first presidential visit to Panama, marking a diplomatic milestone in relations between the two countries. The trip highlighted Panama’s role as a strategic partner and regional meeting point.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog closed part of his Central America visit in Panama with a meeting with the country’s Jewish community and schoolchildren. He urged the children to be proud of their identity and to raise their heads high.
Panama’s prosecutor is investigating whether foreign degrees were used at Unachi to win promotions, contracts, and salary increases. The case has intensified scrutiny of the university’s credential review process and its unusually high payroll.
Jorge Herrera is facing mounting pressure to intervene in a dispute over the salaries of 43 Assembly staffers linked to eight Vamos deputies. The case has become a test of institutional limits and the Assembly’s ability to defend the rule of law.
The Torrijos-Carter Treaties survived a polarized national plebiscite in Panama and a razor-thin U.S. Senate vote. The deals’ approval marked a decisive step toward Panamanian control of the Canal.
Unachi says budget cuts and incomplete transfers have left it unable to cover social security contributions, even as its payroll remains highly paid. Separately, the Assembly is preparing key committee meetings and President Mulino will travel to Costa Rica for a presidential inauguration.
The University of Panama has drawn the ballot order for its July 1 rector election, with six candidates set to compete for the top post. The vote will also choose deans and regional center directors under the university’s weighted system.
Panama’s National Assembly education committee ended its legislative period without a single appearance by Education Minister Lucy Molinar, despite repeated summons. Lawmakers reviewed major issues including school infrastructure, technology spending, curriculum reform and teacher dismissals through written responses instead of live hearings.