The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
A 70-year-old foreign tourist went missing after entering the sea in Veraguas province, while two people were rescued in West Panama amid dangerous tide conditions. The incidents came as strong waves and risky surf affected beachgoers along Panama’s coast.
Panamanian police are investigating a suspected cocaine disappearance tied to an unusual sea transfer involving the MV Raider near Cristobal. The case underscores the ongoing challenge of stopping maritime drug trafficking through Panama’s busy ports.
A vehicle carrying eight people, including three minors, overturned near Juay in Chiriquí on the Pan-American Highway, and SENAFRONT rescued all occupants. The crash occurred during heavy Easter holiday travel, underscoring road safety concerns on Panama’s busiest routes.
Casco Antiguo in Panama City drew thousands of visitors during Holy Week, blending religious observance with one of the capital’s top heritage destinations. International travelers also praised the experience and said they would return.
Panamanian runner Rodolfo López Lassonde completed the Six Star marathon circuit for a second time after finishing Tokyo. He says discipline, training and self-knowledge drove the achievement.
Inadeh and the Panama Tourism Authority have signed an agreement to simplify tourist guide certification and recognize training more directly. The move is meant to improve service quality and support formal jobs in Panama’s tourism sector.
Panama’s National Lottery adjusted its Sunday draw schedule for April 5 in observance of Holy Week 2026. The move aligns the lottery with holiday-period routines across the country.
A French tourist is missing off Veraguas as Panama faces rough seas, beach closures, and red-flag warnings during Semana Santa. Rescue teams also saved three minors in San Carlos after they entered dangerous waters.
Credit card use in Panama is rising as households turn to borrowing for food and essential expenses, even as delinquency and interest rates move higher. Consumer credit also continues to grow across vehicle financing and personal loans.
Mayer Mizrachi said Panama City’s municipalities had no role in designing the new 2026-2030 vehicle plates, after criticism over the slogan “Con paso firme.” The first batch has already begun reaching first-time vehicle registrations.
Sinaproc is searching for a 70-year-old tourist who disappeared at El Estero beach in Veraguas. The agency is urging the public to follow safety warnings and avoid risky coastal conditions.
More than 120,000 faithful visited the Santo Cristo de Alanje in Alanje, Chiriquí, during Holy Week ceremonies and pilgrimages. The sanctuary remains one of Panama’s most important centers of Catholic devotion.
Panama has introduced vehicle license plates carrying political and patriotic slogans, adding a symbolic message to one of the country’s most visible public items. The design turns everyday registration into a broader statement of national identity.
Panama has received international support amid concerns over China’s inspections of Panamanian vessels. The dispute raises fears of wider disruptions to global trade.
Firefighters in Chepo contained a vegetation fire and urged residents to avoid burnings that can spark dangerous outbreaks. Officials also stressed the importance of reporting emergencies immediately.
Panama’s Ministry of Culture is sponsoring Sandra Fest Insuperable for a second year, with a lineup that includes Eddy Herrera and top Panamanian traditional music acts. The event blends private backing with public cultural promotion ahead of its April 11 debut.
Police in Colón arrested a Venezuelan man after a Minsa worker was allegedly tied up and robbed inside the regional office. Officers recovered laptops, phones and jewelry during the arrest.
Panama’s new vehicle license plates have sparked criticism after featuring a political slogan. The backlash centers on whether state-issued plates should carry any message that can be read as political.
The Mercado de Mariscos in Panama City will close on Monday, April 6, together with Mercado San Felipe Neri, for scheduled sanitation work. The markets are set to reopen to the public after the cleanup.
Boquete will celebrate its 115th anniversary on April 11, 2026, marking another milestone for one of Panama’s most popular highland districts. The Chiriquí destination is known for its mountain scenery, tourism appeal, and annual jazz festival.