The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Cuban residents in Panama condemned U.S. threats against Cuba and urged Cubans abroad to defend the island’s independence. Their statement also warned against any use of Panamanian territory for warfare.
More than 100 people were affected when Africanized bees attacked a Good Friday procession in Penonomé, causing panic during the religious event. Authorities urged residents to stay calm and avoid disturbing swarms.
MIDES removed 450 beneficiaries from the 120 a los 65 program after a records cross-check found transport benefits or vehicle ownership. The move highlights stricter eligibility controls in Panama’s social assistance system.
An africanized bee attack disrupted a Good Friday Via Crucis in Penonomé, Coclé, affecting about 150 people and sending 50 for medical care. Emergency teams from several Panamanian institutions coordinated the response.
Panamanian authorities seized 97 suspected drug packages at a port in Colón from a shipment headed to Greece. Investigators are now working to identify those responsible and any links to international criminal networks.
Pan Bon is a beloved Holy Week bread in Panama, especially in Colón, where its Afro-Antillean roots remain part of local identity. The tradition has spread nationwide as a familiar part of Semana Santa celebrations.
China has rejected U.S. accusations over the detention of Panama-flagged ships, calling the claims politically motivated and linked to the Panama Canal. The dispute underscores Panama’s continuing role at the center of global shipping and geopolitical tensions.
ENSA has announced planned power outages in Panama from April 2 to April 4 during Semana Santa. The maintenance work will affect specific areas at scheduled times, requiring residents and businesses to prepare in advance.
Panama will face England, Croatia, and Ghana in the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, with a June 17 match against Ghana set for Toronto. The draw gives Panama an early and difficult path in the tournament.
IMA has announced the relocation of one of its permanent stores in inland Panama. The move matters for residents who rely on the store for affordable everyday goods.
The National Assembly advanced Isidro Carbonell’s appointment to the Lottery as he pointed to a major technological disconnect inside the institution. The move comes amid complaints over irregular sales booklet issuance filed during the previous administration.
Marco Rubio condemned China’s detention of Panama-flagged vessels, drawing attention to Panama’s outsized role in global shipping. The dispute highlights the country’s maritime importance and its vulnerability to international trade tensions.
Two brothers drowned in the Sapillo River in Coclé after one tried to rescue the other, prompting a SINAPROC recovery operation and a renewed safety warning. The victims were later taken to the forensic morgue.
U.S. SOUTHCOM Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan met with President José Raúl Mulino and Panamanian security leaders to discuss anti-narcotrafficking cooperation, canal security, and regional stability. The visit also included a rare aircraft carrier stop in Panamanian waters and joint training activities.
China has rejected U.S. claims about Panama-flagged ship detentions, deepening a dispute tied to maritime security and global shipping. The issue is relevant to Panama because of its major role in vessel registration and world trade.
Panama’s National Assembly is facing criticism over the selection process for the next defensor del Pueblo, with civil society leaders warning of opacity and political influence. The vote now moves to the plenary after interviews concluded this week.
Panamanian officials visited USS Nimitz during the Southern Seas 2026 exercise in the eastern Pacific, highlighting regional maritime cooperation. The visit included Panama’s president, the police chief, and the vice minister of government.
Panama has drawn support from the U.S., Israel and Paraguay after allegations over vessel detention in China, which Beijing denies. The dispute highlights the canal’s strategic weight in global trade and diplomacy.
Marco Rubio accused China of harassing Panama-flagged ships, drawing Panama into another dispute tied to global shipping and maritime security. The allegation highlights the country’s strategic role in international trade through its flag registry and the Panama Canal.
Panama’s National Police and the Public Ministry launched Operation Nomad in Chiriquí to target microtrafficking under the Firmness 2026 Plan. The effort reflects ongoing intelligence-led enforcement in one of the country’s key western provinces.