The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Copa Airlines will add up to 60 Boeing 737 Max jets over the next eight years in a $13 billion deal. The purchase reinforces Panama’s role as a major aviation hub in the Americas.
The Gulf of Panama’s seasonal upwelling failed in 2025 for the first time in at least 40 years, raising concerns about marine health and coastal livelihoods. The event is a major shift in one of Panama’s most important ocean cycles.
Shipping firms are paying up to $4 million to move vessels through the Panama Canal as they avoid risks tied to the Strait of Hormuz. The surge underscores the Canal’s role as a safer alternate route during global shipping disruptions.
Panama Canal fees are climbing as Middle East tensions push more oil tankers to reroute through the waterway. The surge highlights the canal’s central role in global energy shipping and Panama’s exposure to international trade shifts.
The National Assembly ratified Antonio Tercero González as the new director of Idaan during a permanent session. The appointment places him at the head of Panama’s main public water and sewer agency.
Ifarhu has started formalizing preselected scholarship applicants while reviewing entries from students who did not meet the 4.5 minimum average. The agency also says budget limits reduced the number of beneficiaries it can support this year.
Panama’s Finance Ministry refused to disclose details about the State’s forfeited Epasa shares, citing restricted access rules. The dispute centers on who represents the State’s stake in the company after the final New Business ruling.
Tensions between the National Assembly and Comptroller Anel Flores escalated after a postponed meeting and renewed pressure over unpaid-leave cases. Lawmakers also delayed debate on a controversial bioethanol bill and revisited a previous energy law.
A scientific study found that 27% of Panama’s land shows soil degradation, with the greatest impact in agricultural regions such as the Arco Seco and Veraguas. Researchers are urging stronger monitoring and more sustainable farming practices to protect productivity and food security.
Panama’s Ministry of Culture awarded Ernesto “Neco” Endara the Rogelio Sinán Condecoration in a ceremony marked by applause, laughter, and a standing ovation. The 94-year-old writer was recognized for a long literary career that includes more than 20 works and 17 Ricardo Miró prizes.
Panama’s water crisis in Azuero is drawing sharp criticism as emergency well drilling replaces a long-term solution. The low execution of Idaan’s budget has intensified questions about government management.
Panama ended the South American Youth Games with 29 medals and broad success across multiple sports, but track and field remained the notable gap. The results highlight both progress in youth development and the need for stronger athletics infrastructure.
Panama is projected to grow 4% in 2026, placing it among Central America’s strongest economies, according to the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean. The forecast comes as the region faces slower growth, higher inflation and tougher global conditions.
The Panama Canal says it expects no water restrictions in 2026 despite the possible arrival of El Niño after May. Officials say reservoir levels are strong and savings measures are already in place.
Erika Ender and other Panamanians took part in Mexico in the musical Malinche, created and directed by Nacho Cano. Their participation highlights Panamanian talent on an international stage.
Cobre Panamá is using the Feria Internacional de Azuero 2026 to showcase mining technology, including a trolley system and an AI avatar. The exhibit aims to make modern mining and sustainability easier for the public to understand.
A commentary on Panama’s Vamos movement argues that coalitions of independents can end up functioning like parties without the same accountability. It calls for honest political structures and warns against voter confusion.
Panama is hosting a symposium on psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, with experts and patient groups discussing early detection, treatment, and care. The event highlights the importance of awareness and timely diagnosis for chronic inflammatory diseases.
Panama’s seasonal upwelling in the Gulf of Panama failed for the first time in about 40 years, interrupting a key Pacific ocean cycle. The change matters for marine ecosystems, fishing, and coastal conditions along the country’s Pacific coast.
Guánico Abajo, in Tonosí, will celebrate the Virgen de Fátima from May 1 to 3 with activities that reflect local devotion and culture. The festivities also highlight the area’s religious tourism potential.