The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance reaffirmed that informal food and beverage sales are banned on Calzada de Amador under Executive Decree No. 40. Authorities said control operations will continue in the tourist area.
Panama will reactivate a tourist insurance policy in 2026 for visitors arriving by air, after the government approved funds to restore the benefit. The move is part of efforts to support tourism and strengthen the country’s appeal to international travelers.
Municipal Police in Panama City assisted 14 injured people after a crash in Pacora involving a minibus and a water truck. Firefighters and transit officials joined the response to secure the area and support first aid.
Panama’s transport fuel subsidy has started with more than 600 beneficiaries and over 21,000 registered operators. Officials say the program is designed to ease operating costs and prevent fare increases for passengers.
The Panama-Colón Highway will close from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on April 19 for the Gran Fondo Océano a Océano cycling event. Motorists should expect delays and plan alternate travel times.
Panama’s National Cancer Institute has launched new palliative care rooms at the Hospital de Cancerología in Ciudad de la Salud, expanding support for cancer patients. The unit is being implemented gradually through coordination with the Ministry of Health and the Social Security Fund.
The Panama-Colón Highway will close temporarily on April 19 from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for the Gran Fondo Océano a Océano cycling event. Drivers should plan ahead for delays and route changes.
Panama is hosting the 2026 South American Youth Games from April 12 to 25, with the medal table tracking how countries are performing across the competition. The event highlights the country’s role as a regional sports host and showcases emerging young athletes.
Panama’s Cabinet approved $12 million for the second phase of footbridges in the Ngäbe Buglé comarca. The project aims to improve safer movement in one of the country’s most remote regions.
IFARHU has set April 20-24 as the period for preselected students in the 2026 General Scholarship Competition to submit socioeconomic documents in designated provinces. The step is part of the review process for public scholarship access in Panama.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has completed a preliminary technical assessment of Panama’s Bridge of the Americas, a vital crossing over the Panama Canal. The review highlights the bridge’s importance to national transportation and infrastructure planning.
Panama City is hosting Pan-American Judo competition as continental championships get underway, putting the Republic of Panama in the spotlight for regional sport. The event underscores the capital’s role as a host city for international athletic gatherings.
Authorities in Panama have again reminded vendors that informal food and drink sales are not allowed at Calzada de Amador. The warning comes after nearly two years of attempts to stop the practice in the popular Panama City recreational area.
Panama’s Wednesday National Lottery drawing took place on April 15, 2026, drawing interest from players checking their tickets for winning numbers. The miercolito draw remains a regular part of the country’s lottery tradition.
Antai has launched an investigation into 10 municipalities that failed to submit reports on the use of public funds. The agency said transparency is a legal duty and a commitment to citizens.
The Feria Libre Municipal in Hatillo brought together fresh produce, crafts and specialty goods, while San Felipe Neri also saw strong sales. The events highlighted direct support for local producers and entrepreneurs in Panama City.
Panama’s National Assembly is advancing a bill to raise payments for retirees and pensioners, with the trust fund created for the measure emerging as a key issue. The proposal could shape how pension support is financed and delivered.
Panamanian authorities seized 1,897 packages of suspected drugs hidden in commercial containers in Colón that were bound for Belgium. The case highlights Panama’s role as a strategic transit point in international drug trafficking routes.
Parents in Pedregal are calling for stronger school security after an attempted robbery involving a teacher alarmed the community. The incident has renewed concerns about student safety in Panama City.
U.S. distillers dried grains with solubles were promoted to Panama stakeholders as exporters look to expand awareness of the animal feed ingredient. The outreach highlights Panama’s role as a regional trade hub for agricultural products.