The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Panama’s Comptroller General said only seven public employees remain on unpaid suspension as verification and investigation processes continue at the National Assembly. The measure has been in place since the second half of March.
About 500 trees were planted near Tocumen International Airport in Panama City for World Earth Day, bringing together municipal staff, institutions and community partners. The effort highlighted Panama’s push for sustainability, recycling and urban arborization.
Panama City’s Environmental Management Directorate and the Ernesto Córdoba Campos board cleaned a Villa Campestre stream on Earth Day. The effort removed waste and sediment to improve water flow and help reduce flooding risks.
Alex Lee, the former mayor of Colón and a PRD member, was arrested again on April 22, 2026, nearly two years after a previous detention at Tocumen International Airport. The case puts renewed attention on politics and accountability in one of Panama’s most strategic districts.
Panama faces mounting environmental pressure from polluted rivers, poorly managed waste sites and continued deforestation, especially in La Villa and Darién. The crisis is exposing deep gaps in water management, enforcement and long-term planning.
Princess Cruises’ Star Princess completed its first Panama Canal transit, adding a new ship to the line’s decades-long history with the waterway. The crossing highlights the canal’s continued appeal as a major cruise destination in Panama.
Bocas del Toro marks more than 30 years since the earthquake that killed about 20 people and left thousands affected. The tragedy remains a reminder of Panama’s vulnerability to major seismic events.
A Panamanian lawyer launched The Grand Slam of Travel, recounting a record-setting journey that covered all 193 UN countries, both poles, and space. The achievement places Panama in the spotlight through a global exploration milestone.
IFARHU has started the 2026 scholarship document submission process for selected students in Panama. The step is part of the country’s annual education aid cycle.
Bella Vista, San Francisco and Betania in Panama City lead vehicle theft and robbery complaints, followed by Chiriquí and Panamá Oeste. The pattern highlights how auto crime is concentrated in both the capital and other growing provinces.
The Bridge of the Americas will close overnight Thursday, April 23, from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. for a Ministry of Public Works test. Drivers in Panama City should plan alternate routes and expect traffic changes around the crossing.
The Bridge of the Americas will close overnight on April 23 for a structural load test ordered by the Ministry of Public Works. The evaluation is intended to measure the bridge’s response to controlled weight and confirm safe conditions for traffic.
Panama’s Lotería Nacional Miercolito drawing for April 21, 2026 drew attention as players awaited the midweek results. The lottery remains a familiar part of weekly life for many across the country.
Hanna won bronze at the Pan American Championships in Panama City after opening her campaign with a win over an opponent from El Salvador. The result adds a podium finish to a major regional event hosted in Panama’s capital.
Panama’s National Lottery has suspended Lotto and Pega 3 draws following a Supreme Court ruling, raising immediate questions for players and prize payouts. The decision took effect on April 21.
Former Colón mayor Alex Lee was detained again on April 22 in connection with a decentralization-related case. He had previously been arrested in 2024 amid allegations of misusing $214,000 in public funds.
Lawmaker Cedeño is calling for a formal debate on legislation to protect public transport users in Panama. He says the current permit system has fueled distrust by concentrating control in the hands of conglomerates.
Tocumen Airport increased passenger traffic 15% in the first quarter, surpassing 5.7 million travelers. Flights and air cargo also rose, reinforcing Panama’s role as a regional aviation hub.
Moreno Franco will participate in Panama’s Datathon, adding international visibility to an event focused on technology and innovation. He said initiatives like this help bring innovation closer to countries in the region.
Panama’s ATTT sent secretary general Justo Castañeda on vacation leave as authorities move to repeal a decree regulating transport apps. The decision adds political attention to the ongoing debate over ride-hailing and transit oversight.