The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Panama’s National Assembly Health Committee is preparing to summon acting Idaan director Luis Alberto Santanach. The hearing date has not yet been set and is expected to be discussed at the committee’s next meeting.
Education authorities in Panama Oeste are investigating threatening messages found in a school bathroom, with preliminary information pointing to possible student involvement. Meduca has called for calm as officials work to determine responsibility.
Paraguay’s under-16 team won gold in a tense final against Argentina at the South American Youth Games in Panama. The result capped a strong regional tournament hosted by the country.
Panama condemned the seizure of a Panamanian-flagged vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such actions heighten tensions and violate international law. The case underscores Panama’s stake in maritime security as a leading ship registry nation.
Basic food prices rose in Panama City over the past 15 days, with the biggest increase in minisúper and small neighborhood shops. Fuel costs are driving the higher prices through the supply chain.
Fire crews in Penonomé quickly controlled a blaze in a hospital waste storage area, keeping medical services running normally. Units from Penonomé, La Pintada and Antón all took part in the response.
Patients at Hospital Santo Tomás say dialysis care is suffering from equipment, supply and infrastructure problems. The hospital says treatment remains normal and repairs are already moving forward.
Panama condemned Iran’s seizure of the Panama-flagged MSC-Francesca in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it illegal and a danger to maritime security. The move comes amid wider tension involving vessels in one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes.
A judge refused to impose precautionary measures in the IFARHU economic aid case, saying the evidence presented by prosecutors was insufficient. The Public Ministry has filed an appeal.
Panama’s Supreme Court upheld Ricardo Martinelli’s conviction in the New Business money-laundering case, rejecting three constitutional challenges. The ruling keeps in place his prison sentence, fine and ban from public office.
The National Assembly will question the interim IDAAN director as lawmakers seek answers over Panama’s water crisis. The hearing adds pressure on the utility amid growing public concern about service reliability.
Hospital Santo Tomás says its hemodialysis service will continue while the facility carries out corrective work on its infrastructure. The move is aimed at protecting continuity of care for patients who depend on regular dialysis treatment.
A 22-year-old man regained hand movement after a high-complexity surgery by the Caja de Seguro Social in Veraguas. The case highlights the reach of specialized public health care in Panama’s provinces.
Former Colón mayor Alex Lee has been arrested for a second time in Panama, renewing attention on an active anti-corruption case. The case is drawing interest because of Colón’s key role in the country’s canal and logistics network.
Panama’s Social Security agency is investigating $2.5 million in expired medicines, and the agency’s director says the total could be even higher. The case raises fresh concerns about inventory control and oversight in the public health system.
Panama’s Social Security system has added a modern human milk bank and refrigerated vehicle to improve the collection and delivery of donated breast milk for hospitalized babies. The move strengthens neonatal care and supports infants who need specialized nutrition.
Meduca has filed a complaint after detecting 50 false diplomas in teacher hiring contests for 2026. The case involves officials and private individuals and has prompted a broader review of recruitment documents.
Panama’s Public Ministry is pushing ahead with a criminal case over river contamination in Azuero, waiting for a hearing to continue the investigation. The case adds legal weight to an ongoing water crisis in the region.
Panama’s Health Ministry opened a modern maternal and child health center in Sambú, Darién, a facility expected to benefit about 5,000 people. The new center improves access to essential care in one of the country’s most remote provinces.
The first Mega Bingo TV Mundial draw is set for Thursday, April 23, with B/. 5.00 cards available at Metro de Panamá stations. The game will be broadcast live for viewers to follow in real time.