The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
An explosion near the Panama Canal has intensified scrutiny of safety failures, labor enforcement, and unauthorized employment around the global trade hub. The incident underscores the risks facing operations tied to one of Panama’s most important economic assets.
Panama will issue a double payment this Friday, April 17, to retirees and pensioners receiving benefits by ACH transfer or check. The permanent bonus is set to reach beneficiaries across the country.
Alfredo Juncá warned that Panama’s Electoral Tribunal is exposed to pressure from political, economic, media, family and personal circles. His remarks came during the National Assembly’s interview process for a new magistrate.
Panama’s rice millers have urged that food security take priority as the country considers a possible rice price increase. The debate highlights the tension between protecting consumers and keeping the staple supply chain stable.
China has pressed Maersk and MSC to stop operating ports tied to the Panama Canal, raising new pressure around one of Panama’s most strategic assets. The move highlights the canal’s role in global trade and its geopolitical importance.
Yumaira Rusell delivered Panama’s first gold medal at the 2026 South American Youth Games with a wrestling victory. The result gave the host nation an early highlight in the regional competition.
Panama captured its first gold medal at the 2026 South American Youth Games after Yumaira Rusell won in wrestling. The victory gives the host nation an early highlight in the regional youth event.
Panama’s Ministry of Public Works and U.S. officials are continuing an assessment of the Bridge of the Americas after a fire. The evaluation will guide the next steps for one of the country’s most important road links.
The Panama International Book Fair 2026 will honor the Panama Canal as its guest of honor. The choice highlights one of the country’s most important national symbols in a major cultural event.
Wildfires have scorched more than 300 hectares in Chiriquí during the dry season, prompting authorities to renew warnings against open burning. Officials say avoiding burns is key to preventing fast-moving fires.
The Chilibre water treatment plant is back to full operation after damage over the weekend. The return to normal output is important for Panama City’s water supply.
Panama’s Public Ministry inspected Social Security Fund offices after 65 complaints over alleged pension-system irregularities. The case centers on claims that pensions were granted to people who did not meet contribution requirements.
The National Cancer Institute has opened a palliative care unit for cancer patients at Ciudad de la Salud in Panama City. The new service expands specialized support focused on comfort and quality of life.
Caja de Ahorros has opened an innovation center as part of its drive to modernize processes and improve customer experience. The initiative reinforces the bank’s push toward technological transformation in Panama.
A failure at the Chilibre water plant has cut production sharply, leaving high-ground neighborhoods in Panama City and San Miguelito with low pressure or no water. Repair crews are working while residents and local officials press for a faster fix.
Ciudad de la Salud has opened a new palliative oncology care room in Panama, designed to provide dignified and humanized support for cancer patients. The unit adds to the country’s specialized oncology services with a focus on comfort and quality of life.
Sugarcane honey producers in Los Santos are calling on Panama’s lawmakers to include them in the ethanol law debate. They say the policy could strengthen rural jobs, diversify farm income, and support a more sustainable agricultural sector.
Panama’s ATTT has extended until May 30, 2026, the deadline for transport operators to buy the 2025 license plate. The move gives drivers extra time to complete the registration process.
IFARHU has told preselected students in the General Scholarship Contest to submit their socioeconomic declaration and review updated requirements. The process is a key step in determining scholarship eligibility.
Panama’s transit authority has extended the deadline to buy the 2025 license plate for select public transport vehicles until May 30, 2026. The measure covers taxis, collective transport, school transport and tourism vehicles.