The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Transit costs through the Panama Canal have climbed as Middle East tensions and the closing of the Strait of Hormuz disrupt global shipping. The change highlights how conflict in one region can raise costs for Panama’s key maritime corridor.
The Panama Canal Authority rejected the idea that a $4 million line-jumping payment was extraordinary, saying it reflected a rate set by the canal. The clarification comes as pricing and priority access at the waterway draw fresh attention.
Panama police have deployed special operations units to guard a suspect tied to the Alas Chiricanas bombing case. The security move highlights the continuing sensitivity of one of the country’s most serious aviation attacks.
The Bridge of the Americas will close overnight for a structural load test as Panama authorities continue technical evaluations after the April 6 fire-related incident. Drivers are being urged to use the Centenario Bridge as an alternate route.
Bocas del Toro shut out Colón 4-0 in Game 7 of the semifinal to reach the National Major Baseball Championship final for a second straight year. Carlos Sánchez led the offense, while Didier Vargas starred with seven scoreless innings.
Panama’s National Lottery has stopped selling Lotto and Pega 3 after the Supreme Court nullified the contract addendum that extended the concession. The institution says it will honor valid, unclaimed prizes.
Rising tension in the Strait of Hormuz is pushing up shipping costs that can affect traffic through the Panama Canal. The pressure highlights how global security shocks can influence Panama’s economy even from afar.
Panamanians are facing higher living costs as food prices rise from a mix of fuel, climate, pest, and agrochemical pressures. The strain begins in agricultural production and ends with more expensive goods for consumers.
Panama’s National Lottery released the April 21 results for Lotto and Pega 3, two of its electronic draw games. Players are now looking ahead to the next scheduled drawing.
A businessman’s open letter urges President José Raúl Mulino to prioritize water service and garbage collection over Panama’s planned railway. He argues basic utilities should come before a costly transport megaproject.
Thirteen puppies are being trained to join Panama’s National Police canine unit and support work against crime. The effort highlights the role of specialized police dogs in public security operations.
Panama has taken custody of a suspect accused of involvement in the Flight 901 bombing, following a January request and coordination with Venezuelan authorities. The case revives one of the country’s most serious aviation tragedies.
The National Police are training 13 puppies to become part of Panama’s next canine unit. The dogs are being prepared to support law enforcement work against crime.
Panama brought together security agencies, local governments and international experts for the seventh International Congress on Criminality. The talks centered on strategies to confront organized crime, drug trafficking and gangs.
UAPI students went to the National Assembly alleging they were blocked from enrolling after speaking out about irregularities at the university. They say the move violates their right to education.
The Bridge of the Americas will be fully closed Thursday for a structural test, with traffic redirected to the Centenario Bridge. The shutdown affects a key Panama Canal crossing used by commuters and freight traffic.
Panama’s retiree bonus law is drawing criticism because only people on Social Security payrolls through June 2024 qualify. The debate has renewed concern about whether older adults are receiving the discounts and protections guaranteed by law.
Panama’s National Lottery has suspended Lotto and Pega 3 after a Supreme Court ruling. The institution says it will pay all valid prizes still awaiting claim.
Panama is facing higher fuel costs tied to global conflict even as the canal gains strategic importance. The moment could strengthen the country’s standing if it uses it to build a more durable economic vision.
Panama’s Penitentiary System suspended in-person visits at La Joya, La Joyita and La Nueva Joya through April 27 after a security incident left one inmate dead. Authorities said they activated protocols, carried out inspections and will reschedule family visits.