The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Panama’s Ministry of Culture has opened literary contests in short story, poetry, and narrative to promote new writers, including children, youth, and emerging authors. The initiative aims to strengthen the country’s literary scene and expand opportunities for creative talent.
Panama’s National Assembly will now choose a new Electoral Court magistrate from a list of 24 candidates after the Credentials Commission completed interviews. The appointment is moving to the plenary for a final vote.
A man was killed in a shooting in Llano Bonito, Juan Díaz, after at least three attackers fired more than 15 shots. Police are investigating the homicide.
Panama’s National Assembly Credential Committee continued interviewing candidates for principal and alternate magistrate posts at the Electoral Tribunal. The selection is important for the country’s election oversight system.
Panama’s health authorities reported more than 1,700 dengue cases and urged residents to strengthen prevention efforts by eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Officials stressed that community cleanup remains key to limiting the spread of the disease.
Conep presented an update on the socioeconomic impact of the Donoso mine closure, focusing on how the shutdown is affecting nearby communities and local economic activity. The review adds to Panama’s broader debate over mining, jobs, and regional recovery.
A man was ambushed and shot to death while inside his car in Llano Bonito, Juan Díaz, in Panama City. The killing adds to growing concern over gun violence in the capital.
The April 15, 2026 Wednesday draw results for Panama’s national lottery were released, drawing the usual attention from players nationwide. The “miercolito” remains one of the country’s most watched lottery events.
Portobelo is set for the seventh Pollera Congo Festival, with authorities expecting more than 15,000 attendees during the May 1 holiday weekend. The event highlights Afro-Panamanian culture and could provide a boost to local tourism and commerce.
Portobelo will host the seventh Pollera Congo Festival on May 2, featuring an aquatic parade and 19 participating groups. The event will celebrate one of Panama’s most important Afro-Antillean traditions.
Panamanian authorities seized more than 2,000 boxes of alcoholic beverages in a border operation amid suspicions of smuggling. The move reflects ongoing efforts to curb contraband and protect legal trade in Panama.
Two Colombian nationals were arrested in Albrook during a joint operation by Interpol Panama and the National Police. Authorities linked them to an international network allegedly connected to drug and weapons trafficking with ties to the U.S. and Europe.
Panama’s 95-octane gasoline will drop 3 cents per liter on Friday, while 91-octane stays at $1.17 and diesel rises by 1 cent. The new fuel prices run through May 1.
Darién remains Panama’s key stronghold for the harpy eagle, where protected rainforest and community monitoring help sustain nesting sites. Conservation efforts there are central to the survival of the national bird.
More than 300 patients in Bocas del Toro are urging the CSS to launch cataract surgery campaigns after waiting years for treatment. The case highlights long delays in access to specialized care outside Panama’s main urban areas.
Two men identified as alias Yamir and alias Chema were ordered into provisional detention over the killing of Second Sergeant Albis Espinoza in El Chorrillos. Prosecutors say the case may be tied to gang activity, and an appeal hearing is set for April 24.
IDAAN’s Chame water plant is operating at half capacity after a pump failure, causing low pressure and outages in Gorgona, Coronado and Punta Barco. The disruption is affecting homes and businesses across Panama Oeste.
Panama has started a fuel subsidy for public transport, including selective, collective, and school transport. Some drivers reported registration issues as the program got underway.
FOX Latin America has launched The FOX Channel in Central America, including Panama in its regional rollout. The new service adds sports coverage, including the Panamanian Football League, for viewers across the market.
Panama City will see temporary road closures during cycling and triathlon events for the Juegos Suramericanos de la Juventud Panamá 2026. Authorities are urging drivers to use alternate routes and follow traffic instructions.