The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Panama’s National Assembly suspended Bill 491, which seeks pension and retirement increases, after President José Raúl Mulino said it had not been consulted. The move delays a politically sensitive debate as lawmakers weigh the risk of an executive veto.
The Gulf of Panama’s seasonal upwelling failed in 2025 for the first time in at least four decades, a rare disruption with consequences for marine life and coastal waters. Scientists say the loss of cool, nutrient-rich waters could affect ecosystems and fisheries.
President José Raúl Mulino said China has acknowledged that the dispute over Panamanian ports is being settled in arbitration, not as a bilateral political conflict. He also raised concerns about increasing detentions of Panama-flagged ships in Chinese ports.
Police are searching Santa Ana after a man was killed inside a business near Panama City’s Mercado del Marisco. The shooting has raised concern in a busy commercial area.
President José Raúl Mulino toured the construction of Panama’s new Hospital del Niño, a B/.705.8 million pediatric complex expected to open next year. The project is part of a wider national plan to expand and modernize health facilities.
The Panama Canal Authority has published a compensation framework for Río Indio families resettled by the reservoir project. The package includes new housing, economic compensation, and an annual payment for households in restoration programs.
Vamos deputies filed a complaint with the Public Ministry against the comptroller, alleging an overreach of authority that affected eight legislative offices. The move escalates a dispute over the limits of oversight power in Panama.
Panama City hosted a regional UNCCD capacity-building workshop bringing together Caribbean and Latin American countries to improve national environmental reporting. The meeting focused on stronger institutional capacity and greater ownership of reporting processes.
The Municipality of Panama carried out an eviction operation at 5 de Mayo as part of a campaign to remove structures and restore commercial façades in the capital. Street vendors are demanding relocation as the city moves ahead with its recovery plan.
Panama has opened registration for the 2026 National Oratory Contest, which will focus on artificial intelligence. The final is set for November 22 and will air nationwide.
Panama City authorities and the Health Ministry launched a dengue prevention campaign in Las Garzas, combining fumigation and cleanup efforts. Officials said the district has 65 dengue cases as infrastructure work continues nearby.
Two officials and a former official were detained in Don Bosco over alleged irregularities involving funds from IPT Don Bosco. The case highlights scrutiny over public money tied to education.
President José Raúl Mulino’s Thursday session centered on detained Panamanian-flag vessels, possible extra legislative sessions and a pause on bioethanol. The issues touch Panama’s shipping reputation, policy calendar and energy planning.
Panama has confirmed a plan to buy 10,000 bulletproof vests for the National Police as officials respond to rising crime concerns. The move is meant to improve officer protection and reinforce public security efforts.
The U.S. ambassador in Panama voiced support for the country’s maritime sector after concerns over Panamanian-flagged ships in Chinese ports. The issue highlights Panama’s major role in global shipping and the importance of protecting its vessel registry.
MITRADEL announced new job vacancies in Panama, San Miguelito and Coclé through its official employment portal. The openings give job seekers across multiple provinces fresh opportunities to find work.
MAC Panamá is presenting “Caribe Indomable,” an adults-only event that brings together art, music, culture, and food in a celebration of Afrodescendant identity. The activity highlights Caribbean heritage and community connection in Panama.
President José Raúl Mulino signed a law that bans exhibitionist acts in public spaces and raises penalties to as much as six years in prison. The measure is intended to protect children, adolescents, and public order across Panama.
Panama has been singled out as a team Ghana should not underestimate ahead of their Group L World Cup meeting on June 17. The warning highlights Panama’s potential to pose a serious challenge in tournament play.
Panama’s National Assembly suspended bill 491, a proposal to raise lower pensions using a fee on containers. Supporters say the pause is strategic, not final.