The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
IMA will close its Santa Ana store from May 6 to May 8 for a scheduled event, with service expected to resume afterward. The temporary shutdown may affect shoppers in one of Panama City’s busiest districts.
President José Raúl Mulino visited the construction site of Panama’s new Hospital del Niño, a $705.8 million project slated for delivery in 2027. The contract also includes equipment, maintenance, and related work at Santo Tomás Hospital.
Panama begins receiving documents for the 2026 General Scholarship Contest on Friday, May 1. The program is open to students in primary, secondary, and university education.
Panama’s Ministry of Public Works is advancing a $3 million pothole-repair plan in Herrera as part of a nationwide road maintenance strategy. Minister José Luis Andrade highlighted the province during a supervision tour.
Twenty-five students in Coclé were exposed to an agrochemical at school and are now reported to be out of danger. Health authorities are keeping them under observation as a precaution.
A man was shot and killed outside a restaurant near Panama City’s Mercado del Marisco. Authorities are reviewing surveillance cameras and conducting operations to identify the attackers.
President José Raúl Mulino criticized Law 491 over the lack of consultation and said a veto remains possible. Business groups are warning that the pension increase could hurt Panama’s competitiveness.
Residents of El Clavel in Arraiján say they have gone more than a month without water, forcing families to spend more on basic needs. They are urging IDAAN to restore service as the problem worsens.
Panama’s government is planning to buy 10,000 bulletproof vests for the National Police as officials respond to rising crime. The move would ease pressure on officers now sharing about 5,000 vests across different units.
Panama’s National Assembly will meet in extraordinary session from May 4 to June 5 to debate a Fiscal Code reform on economic substance. President José Raúl Mulino says the bill is key to helping Panama move off an EU tax list.
President José Raúl Mulino defended Panama’s discretionary fund, saying it helps finance urgent surgeries, transplants and emergency aid for families. The comments put the spotlight on how the government balances fast medical support with public spending oversight.
President José Raúl Mulino discussed detained Panamanian-flagged ships in China, extraordinary sessions in the National Assembly, and a pause in bioethanol debate. The remarks underscored Panama’s focus on shipping, legislation, and energy policy.
Transport operators in Ngäbe Buglé have gained access to the fuel subsidy, easing costs for the sector. But long-standing uncertainty over transport permits continues to affect drivers without formal concessions.
Puerto Rico National Guard training helped boost Panama’s aircraft maintenance capabilities, supporting safer and more reliable aviation operations. The effort underscores regional cooperation and the importance of technical readiness for public-service aircraft.
Pandeportes says the CAR’s flooding was caused by heavy rain and a high tide, but the facility quickly returned to normal. Officials say the athletics turf was not damaged and drainage improvements are underway.
Panama is considering a $1.50 charge on each container entering through its ports to help fund senior pensions. President José Raúl Mulino has distanced himself from the plan, adding pressure to the bill.
President José Raúl Mulino addressed the retention of Panamanian-flagged vessels in China, extraordinary sessions in the National Assembly, and the pause in the bioethanol debate. The remarks highlighted key maritime, legislative, and energy issues on Panama’s agenda.
Panama’s Foreign Ministry met with the families of seven nationals detained in Cuba as the government continues diplomatic efforts to secure their return. The case has become a consular and humanitarian issue for Panamanian authorities.
Panama’s National Assembly closed its legislative term with debate over bill 491, which would raise monthly payments for retirees and pensioners earning under $600. The proposal would be financed through a $1.50 charge per container entering the country through ports.
IFARHU is preparing the PASE-U 2026 payment for the coming months and plans to deliver it through a new digital system. The change could streamline access to Panama’s school assistance program.