The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
The Vatican has expressed regret to Israel’s ambassador over the closure of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which Israel says was justified on security grounds. The decision comes amid the wider war in the Middle East.
The Vatican said it regretted Israel’s decision to block Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from Palm Sunday Mass at the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Israeli authorities later reversed the move after international criticism.
The Kiwanis Football League launched its 2026 season with Kickoff Fest, introducing teams, uniforms, and a packed calendar for contact and flag football. The league also announced that Puerto Rico will face the Panama Sharks in September.
Arraiján’s municipality has started demolishing commercial premises near the Cabecera roundabout, prompting residents and merchants to demand compensation. The move is raising concern over the impact on local businesses.
Panama has begun a new customs control phase requiring export and re-export declarations when goods leave the country. The change affects Free Zone trade procedures and compliance.
Panama’s Health Ministry has activated a Blue Alert for Holy Week, with 84 hospitals and polyclinics operating 24 hours and emergency vehicles on standby. The measure aims to ensure medical coverage during a busy holiday period.
A Panamanian judge ordered six months of provisional detention for baseball player Juan Aizpurúa after he allegedly hit Yeison Austin in the head with a bat during a fight. The case remains under investigation.
The Panama Canal Authority is nearing a decision on its next administrator, with Ilya Espino de Marotta confirming she is in the shortlist. The selection comes amid unusual secrecy compared with the public 2019 process.
Residents of La Rosita in Río Abajo are urging authorities to secure and clean up the site of a warehouse fire after a damaged wall raised fears of collapse. They also report unauthorized removals from the property and say some neighbors have been threatened.
Fedebeis has sanctioned parties involved in incidents during the Veraguas vs. Los Santos game in Panama’s Major Baseball tournament. The source does not detail the penalties, but says the federation has already acted.
FSU Panama City students took part in a simulated underwater crime scene investigation, gaining hands-on experience with forensic challenges in submerged environments. The exercise emphasized practical training and the difficulty of collecting evidence underwater.
Panama’s government has ordered public office closures for Holy Week 2026, with some exceptions. Residents are being urged to check ahead for service availability and schedule changes.
The San Juan Pablo II Center will hold its Good Friday food drive, collecting dry and refrigerated goods or bank donations for homeless and elderly people. The campaign links Holy Week fasting with charitable support.
Fedebeis has suspended several people for two games after a violent clash between Veraguas and Los Santos left multiple people injured. The federation says it is still investigating to determine responsibility.
Panama City’s Casco Antiguo will again host the traditional Holy Thursday visit to seven churches, with temples open late into Good Friday. The route blends Catholic devotion with the district’s historic and religious heritage.
Panama’s Health Ministry has activated 84 facilities with 24-hour coverage for Holy Week to support emergency care during a busy travel period. The plan is meant to strengthen access as movement increases across the country.
A Newsroom Panama commentary proposes a Panama-style canal through Oman or the UAE to bypass Persian Gulf shipping risks linked to Iran. The piece compares the idea to the Panama Canal as a way to secure trade routes and boost regional economies.
The Panama Canal Authority has updated prequalification documents for its energy corridor and terminal projects, extending key deadlines through June 8, 2026. The changes are meant to clarify the process and support the Canal’s long-term logistics strategy.
Residents in Barú, Chiriquí, protested over a shortage of drinking water affecting several communities. The demonstration highlights growing concern about access to potable water in the district.
Panama firefighters responded to criticism over their work in Rio Abajo, saying their main priority in any emergency is protecting human life. The statement was meant to clarify their role after questions about the response.