The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Martín Torrijos has launched UNE, a new party aimed at the 2029 elections, positioning it as an alternative to Panama’s worn political establishment. The move revives his national profile and sets an early test of whether he can build a broader coalition beyond old PRD-era networks.
UNACHI’s succession rules and a disputed holiday recess have put university governance back in the spotlight in Panama. At the same time, party alliances and new political projects are reshaping the national landscape.
Leaning buildings do not always fall because the cause is often in the ground below, not the structure above. The lesson from Pisa and Amsterdam is that monitoring foundations early can prevent a tilt from becoming a disaster.
Ensa has scheduled preventive electrical maintenance from May 18 to 23, with temporary outages expected in selected sectors. Customers can check whether their NAC is affected through the utility’s interruptions page.
The Panama Canal continues to stand out as one of the country’s strongest institutions, offering a model of professional management and long-term planning. Its success has renewed debate over why other public sectors in Panama cannot operate with the same efficiency.
The sunflower lanyard helps identify people with invisible disabilities and signals that they may need patience or support. Its growing use is a reminder that respect and accessibility begin with awareness.
ACODECO has reaffirmed that tips in Panama are voluntary, not mandatory, and consumers can seek refunds for unauthorized charges. The agency says businesses that impose these fees may face penalties under consumer protection law.
Panama’s growing poverty and street homelessness are exposing deep gaps in social policy, unemployment and municipal response. The problem is increasingly visible in Panama City and David, where hardship is becoming part of everyday life.
Specialists in Panama are urging households to prioritize essential expenses, especially food, as living costs and fuel prices remain under pressure. The guidance comes as families look for practical ways to protect their budgets.
A satirical commentary from Panama warns about the dangers of concentrating financial power in one office, especially when pay, audits and oversight can be used as political weapons. It taps into long-running concerns about transparency and institutional independence.
Panama’s bunker sales rose 6% year on year in April, led by stronger VLSFO and LSMGO demand. The increase reflects Panama’s continuing role as a key fuel hub for shipping tied to the Canal.
A school in Santiago is reinforcing bullying prevention through stronger cooperation between teachers, parents, and the community. Those involved say the approach has helped maintain a healthy school environment with no reported bullying cases.
Trump warned Iran that time is running out for a deal, renewing threats of further attacks as a fragile ceasefire continues to wobble. The latest remarks raise the risk of fresh escalation in a conflict with global security and trade implications.
Ocean Reef Islands remains one of Panama City’s most exclusive addresses, but its quiet appearance highlights the difference between luxury branding and market reality. The development offers a window into Panama’s high-end real estate trends and coastal urban growth.
SENAFRONT apprehended a man in Darién after a domestic violence case escalated into machete threats against police units. The incident underscores the security and safety challenges authorities face in Panama’s remote eastern province.
WHO has declared the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo a global health emergency after cases spread to Kinshasa and neighboring Uganda. Officials warn the Bundibugyo strain could expand further without stronger surveillance and containment.
Israel’s embassy in Panama marked the country’s 78th independence anniversary with a reception that highlighted security concerns, long-standing ties and new cooperation plans. Talks are advancing in water, health, cybersecurity and technology education.
Río Abajo hosted a colorful Cultural Parade of the Black Ethnicity, with music, traditional dress, and delegations celebrating Afro-Panamanian heritage. The event was part of Panama’s Month of the Black Ethnicity ahead of the May 30 national day.
Vinícius Júnior was substituted against Sevilla after feeling discomfort in his right leg, but Real Madrid says the issue is minor. The setback comes just before Brazil’s World Cup squad announcement.
Panama’s National Lottery held its Sunday draw on May 17, 2026, continuing one of the country’s most familiar weekly gambling routines. The results matter not only to players but also to retailers and vendors connected to the lottery economy.