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 will begin issuing CEPANIM, a negotiable certificate, starting in June. The move adds a new financial instrument to the country’s public finance toolkit.
Comptroller Anel Flores said lawmakers’ employees in Panama’s Assembly were allegedly signing attendance for an entire month in one day. The claims add pressure on legislators already facing scrutiny over payroll oversight.
President José Raúl Mulino attended the inauguration of Laura Fernández Delgado in Costa Rica alongside other regional heads of state. The visit highlights Panama’s ongoing diplomatic ties with its Central American neighbors.
Anti-corruption prosecutors raided the Ancón community board offices in Panama City as part of an investigation involving public administration. The case highlights continued scrutiny of local government accountability in Panama.
Panama National Police arrested a third teenager linked to the violent robbery of two foreign seniors on Balboa Avenue. The case has prompted stepped-up patrols in a major tourist area of Panama City.
Libros para Niños has opened entries for the 2026 Premio Centroamericano de Literatura Infantil, a regional contest for adult writers from seven Central American countries, including Panama. The call remains open through August 20, 2026.
César Caicedo has been placed under house arrest after a December 2025 drug-related arrest in Operation Nodriza. Prosecutors have appealed and are seeking his detention again.
Panama’s Second National Mega Bingo draw for May 7, 2026, has produced the winning numbers, with players now checking tickets and prize deadlines. As always, timely redemption is key for any potential winner.
Panamanian authorities checked 90 people in a joint Terraplén operation, flagging residency, work, and entry violations among some foreign nationals. Six citations were issued and five people were referred to authorities.
Panama’s Gordito del Zodiaco lottery drawing took place on May 8, 2026, drawing attention from players following the national game. The event remains part of the country’s long-standing lottery tradition.
Panama’s U-17 men’s team will return to the Canteras de América in Rosario, where it will face Alianza Lima, Peñarol and Paraguay in Group C. The tournament offers another important tune-up ahead of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026.
Panama’s CSS has confirmed that May 2026 pension and retirement payments will be made on May 19 and 20. The schedule includes both ACH deposits and cheque payments.
Panama’s Labor Ministry found nine foreign nationals working without permits during an inspection of 35 businesses in San Felipe. The sweep highlights ongoing enforcement of labor rules in Panama City.
Panama and Portugal agreed to strengthen cooperation in science and education while Portugal also moved to adhere to the Panama Canal Neutrality Protocol. The deal reinforces the canal’s international significance and Panama’s diplomatic ties.
Panama is hosting the Maritime Convention of the Americas this week as the canal, security, and the Middle East conflict shape the regional maritime agenda. The country’s maritime and logistics sector accounts for 30% of GDP and employs more than 150,000 people.
Panamanian courts granted home detention or similar measures to three suspects in serious cases in hearings held over two days. The rulings involved a Colón gang case, a homicide defendant, and the father of Dayra Caicedo.
Portugal is moving toward joining the Panama Canal Neutrality Treaty after talks with Panama’s foreign affairs officials. The step comes as Panama broadens diplomatic support for the canal amid global trade instability.
President José Raúl Mulino traveled to San José for the inauguration of Costa Rica’s new president, using the visit to emphasize security, border coordination and trade. The trip comes as Panama seeks to improve commercial ties after earlier disputes with Costa Rica.
Panama police detained a Mexican national wanted for child sexual abuse in an operation coordinated with Interpol Panama. The arrest reflects the country’s role in international law-enforcement cooperation.
Four men were detained in Chiriquí after authorities seized 1,320 packages of cocaine, along with a firearm, cash and several vehicles. The case underscores ongoing anti-trafficking operations in western Panama.