The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Panama says relations with China are improving after a recent diplomatic spat, easing tensions in a relationship closely tied to trade and investment. The shift matters for a country whose economy depends heavily on global logistics and foreign partnerships.
A government and U.S. Southern Command medical mission is working in Azuero to reduce the gastroenterology backlog and improve access to specialist care. The effort focuses on early detection of digestive diseases and better services in Panama’s interior.
Police detained two minors in Curundú after the robbery of foreign visitors on Avenida Balboa in Panama City. The case has renewed concerns in the tourism sector about safety and Panama’s international image.
Panama will host a strategic UNICEF hub to coordinate global knowledge and technical support for child-focused work. The office will connect with UNICEF centers in Nairobi, Amman and Bangkok.
INADEH has opened registration for its General Welder program and is urging interested applicants to enroll quickly because spaces are limited. The training is part of Panama’s broader push to strengthen technical job skills.
Panama has opened document reception for the Concurso General de Becas 2026, a scholarship competition for primary, secondary and university students. The program is aimed at widening access to education support across the country.
Ernesto Cedeño has filed complaints over alleged irregular evictions of street vendors in the municipalities of Panama and Arraiján. The case highlights ongoing tensions over public space, municipal enforcement and informal work.
WHO and Panamanian experts say a hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius is not the beginning of a covid-style pandemic. Panama’s own hantavirus threat is tied to rodent exposure, not sustained human spread.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance has announced the official 2026 schedule for the Fiscal Lottery, including deadlines for depositing invoices and regional draws. The program continues to encourage consumers to request receipts and support tax compliance.
Panama is advancing territorial planning tied to the logistics development of Puerto Armuelles in Barú, a move aimed at attracting investment and jobs. The project could boost economic activity along Panama’s Pacific coast.
Hospital Santo Tomás and Operation Walk are carrying out a free knee replacement campaign in Panama for 35 patients. The program aims to improve mobility and relieve pain for people who need specialized orthopedic surgery.
Panama will open its Venice Biennale pavilion to the public with Hiperstición Tropical, highlighting the country’s cultural diplomacy efforts. The exhibition places Panamanian art on one of the world’s biggest international stages.
Panama’s education ministry is investigating a suspected fake diploma network after around 200 teachers resigned and criminal complaints were filed. The case is now before the Public Ministry and raises questions about credential checks in public schools.
Panama’s Ministry of Public Works has awarded a $312 million public-private partnership to rehabilitate the Pan-American Highway West. The project includes 15 new U-turn facilities across several communities in Panama Oeste and nearby provinces.
A young man accused of animal abuse in Las Cumbres apologized after a viral video circulated online and said he is ready to face authorities. The case has sparked public concern over animal welfare and accountability.
Panama City Hall will host a free Book, Art and Culture Fair on May 14 and 15 at the Hatillo Building. The two-day event is open to the public and will highlight reading, creativity and culture in the capital.
A Panama City municipal crew went to Don Bosco to help build a sidewalk in Villa Las Acacias. The project adds a neighborhood-focused pedestrian improvement in the capital.
Panama Metro will launch a new operating plan on May 11 to move trains through both platforms during peak hours and ease passenger congestion. The change is designed to speed up user flow as demand on the system continues to rise.
A schoolboy was shot and killed in an apartment in Nueva Providencia, Colón, after visiting friends. He was taken to the Sabanitas Polyclinic, where his death was confirmed.
Metro de Panamá will begin boarding trains from both platforms at key terminal stations to manage rising passenger volumes. The change will take effect on Line 1 and Line 2 at selected stations.