The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
President José Raúl Mulino ruled out cabinet changes while addressing rumors that the rector of Unachi may have resigned. His remarks also highlighted the public interest around leadership at Panama’s major state university.
Panama City Hall has introduced a new Temporary Circulation Permit system with digital delivery, QR verification, and a physical sticker option. The measure is aimed at speeding up vehicle procedures and reducing in-person paperwork.
Panama’s Social Security Fund has set May 19 as the payment date for retirees and pensioners for the second half of May 2026. Beneficiaries will receive funds through ACH or cheque.
President José Raúl Mulino said the possible re-election of Jorge Herrera is an internal matter for the National Assembly. Lawmakers will choose their new board of directors on July 1.
Panama’s president ruled out negotiations with gangs after recent drug seizures and operations targeting criminal networks linked to contaminated containers in ports. The remarks highlight a hardline stance on organized crime and port security.
President José Raúl Mulino defended the rise in Panama’s state payroll, saying new schools and hospitals require more staff. He also rejected claims that the hiring reflects unnecessary government posts.
Panama’s Public Ministry warned of rising scams and new fraud tactics, including criminals posing as bank, phone company, or institutional staff. The alert urges the public to verify identities before sharing information.
San Miguelito representative Guillermo García Rivas is urging a deeper analysis before mobility restrictions are expanded in the district. He says insecurity in areas like Belisario Frías and Arnulfo Arias needs social intervention, not restrictions alone.
Panama is approaching one million visitors in the first quarter of 2026, while tourism spending in the opening months reached $2 billion. The figures highlight the sector’s growing role in the national economy.
President José Raúl Mulino held his weekly conference on May 14 before inaugurating the Anillo Hidráulico de Panamá Norte in Guarumal. The event highlighted the government’s infrastructure focus in Panama Norte.
Specialists in Panama warn that bullying is becoming harder to contain as digital platforms keep harassment going beyond the classroom. The shift to online abuse is making school violence more persistent and more damaging for students.
Panama’s strategic location and services-based economy give it room to strengthen growth through freer markets and pro-business reform. The country’s future competitiveness may depend on how well it supports private enterprise.
Panama’s Maritime Chamber is urging an urgent update to the country’s maritime strategy to protect its logistics hub status and support jobs. The call comes as new port investments, Canal-linked projects and regional competition reshape the sector.
Panama Canal transit auction fees have climbed to US$4 million, reflecting strong demand for limited passage slots. The increase highlights the canal’s central role in global trade and Panama’s logistics economy.
Panama will see isolated showers in maritime areas and high UV levels, while the Cordillera Central is expected to stay much cooler than the rest of the country. Temperatures will remain warm nationwide outside the highlands.
Camera traps at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama have become a powerful tool for studying wildlife and training young scientists. The work is helping strengthen Panama’s role as a hub for tropical research and conservation.
Noa Yitzhak, a 22-year-old Israeli woman, was killed in an accident in Panama, according to i24NEWS. The case draws attention to travel safety for visitors in the country.
Israeli victim of a Panama crash has been identified as Noa Yitzhak. The case highlights ongoing concerns about road safety in the country.
The Panama Canal is drawing renewed geopolitical scrutiny as analysts examine China’s influence and the strategic importance of the waterway. For Panama, the canal remains both an economic engine and a symbol of sovereignty.
An Israeli dance teacher killed in a crash in Panama has been identified. The case highlights ongoing road safety concerns in the country and the impact of fatal traffic accidents on families at home and abroad.