The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Panama’s new vehicle license plates have sparked criticism after featuring a political slogan. The backlash centers on whether state-issued plates should carry any message that can be read as political.
The Mercado de Mariscos in Panama City will close on Monday, April 6, together with Mercado San Felipe Neri, for scheduled sanitation work. The markets are set to reopen to the public after the cleanup.
Boquete will celebrate its 115th anniversary on April 11, 2026, marking another milestone for one of Panama’s most popular highland districts. The Chiriquí destination is known for its mountain scenery, tourism appeal, and annual jazz festival.
Police in Colón arrested a Venezuelan man accused of stealing computers and holding a Ministry of Health employee against her will. Officers recovered the stolen items after locating him in the city center.
IFARHU and MEDUCA are validating student enrollment data to speed up PASE-U 2026 payments and reduce beneficiary errors. The coordination aims to make the process more accurate for Panamanian families.
IMA agro-fairs return across Panama on March 23 and 24, with low-cost products available from 8:00 a.m. The events are designed to help families access affordable food in multiple communities.
IMA rejected a rumor that it had withdrawn an onion quota from a producer in Azuero and confirmed an agreement to buy 10,000 quintals. The move is aimed at reassuring growers in one of Panama’s key agricultural regions.
More than 80,000 vehicles traveled toward Panama’s interior during Holy Week as authorities maintained transit and safety operations. Sinaproc also reported 12 rescue responses amid ongoing monitoring at beaches and rivers.
A bee swarm in Panama injured about 150 people and sent 50 to hospital after attacking a crowd. Emergency crews responded as images showed the neighborhood being secured.
Panama is gaining international backing as China’s restrictions on Panamanian-flagged vessels draw criticism from several countries. Costa Rica, Honduras, Peru and Ukraine have joined calls against the inspections and delays at Chinese ports.
Panama’s new vehicle license plates have sparked criticism after including the slogan “With a firm step,” a phrase linked to the current administration. Opponents say the five-year plate cycle makes the message a long-lasting political symbol on private cars.
Boquete will celebrate its 115th anniversary on April 11, 2026, with major events including a parade, cabalgata and civic ceremonies. The Chiriquí mountain district is also using the milestone to highlight its history, coffee culture and tourism appeal.
Panama’s Good Friday holiday ended with two deaths, several rescues and more than 2,000 visitors counted under Operación Guardianes 2026. The figures highlight the heavy movement and safety risks of Holy Week travel.
Strong Pacific swell caused a vacation property to collapse at Malibu beach in Nueva Gorgona, Panama Oeste. A surf advisory remains in effect through Sunday night as authorities urge caution along the coast.
Panama’s new 2026-2030 vehicle plates are facing backlash over the inclusion of the slogan “Con paso firme,” which critics say turns a state document into political messaging. The ATTT says the plates are being distributed under the rules set by Law 214.
Panama is gaining diplomatic support from several countries after China’s actions against Panama-flagged ships drew warnings over global trade stability and maritime law. Governments across Latin America, Europe and the Middle East said the pressure threatens freedom of navigation and the rule of law.
Panama has activated lane reversals to ease the return of Easter Week traffic toward Panama City. The measure is aimed at reducing congestion on key routes as holiday travelers head back to the capital.
Edwin Rodríguez and Diana Rodríguez won the 21K races at the 12th Clásica Sábado de Gloria in Aguadulce, which drew 412 runners. José Cedeño, Magdaline Jepkoech, Daniel González and Suyeris Guerra also claimed titles in shorter distances.
The CSS will pay the second half of April’s pension and a bonus to retirees and pensioners on April 17. The date gives beneficiaries a clear timeline for one of the month’s key payments.
Panama will recognize Inadeh training credentials to speed up certification for tourist guides. The agreement aims to improve coordination and make it easier for candidates to qualify.