The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Hugo Broos criticized Lyle Foster’s performance after South Africa’s 1-1 draw with Panama, saying the Burnley forward was “a little bit lazy.” The coach’s comments came ahead of Bafana Bafana’s second friendly against Panama.
NASA is ready to launch Artemis II, a historic crewed mission that will send four astronauts around the Moon for the first time in more than 50 years. The flight could mark a major step toward future lunar landings and long-term Moon exploration.
The CSS says it will pay the permanent B/.50 bonus to retirees and pensioners in April 2026. Beneficiaries are waiting for the exact disbursement date.
Panama’s Social Security Fund has activated a green alert and deployed 6,000 personnel nationwide for Holy Week, citing increased travel and medical demand. The operation is aimed at improving emergency readiness across the country.
Panama and Costa Rica are exploring rail cooperation that could one day link both countries by train. The discussions fit into broader efforts to improve regional connectivity and transport planning.
Florida Highway Patrol joined local agencies in Bay County and Panama City Beach to boost spring break enforcement and public safety. The coordinated effort targeted heavy seasonal traffic in one of the area’s busiest tourism periods.
Rising gas prices are making travel to Panama City Beach more expensive, adding pressure to a tourism economy that depends heavily on road trips. Higher fuel costs could influence how far people travel and how much they spend once they arrive.
Panama ranked among the 13 countries with the cleanest air in the world in IQAir’s latest annual study, becoming the only Central American nation on the list. The ranking highlights a positive environmental result even as global air quality worsened in many regions.
IMA will close its ferias, stores and distributors on Thursday and Friday for Holy Week, urging residents to buy needed products in advance. A feria will still take place on Wednesday, April 1, in several provinces.
Panama has arrested Joël Soudron, a 46-year-old Guadeloupe native wanted in France over a cocaine trafficking case involving shipping containers. The case highlights the country’s role in international anti-drug enforcement.
Acodeco recorded 93 violations of Panama’s senior discount law in January and February 2026, with loan interest, missing signage and restaurant discounts among the most common issues. The agency fined businesses $16,000 and urged affected customers to file claims with receipts or photos.
BTS’s 2026 Latin America tour has triggered major demand among Panama fans, who are preparing for presales that require Weverse registration and a Ticketmaster account. Bogotá is the closest confirmed stop for Panamanians, with concerts set for October 2 and 3, 2026.
Panama’s Health Ministry and the IOM signed an agreement to strengthen HIV, tuberculosis and malaria response at migrant transit points in Mesoamerica. The project is backed by the Global Fund and includes Panama, Costa Rica and Guatemala.
Panama takes on South Africa in an international friendly broadcast live on TVMAX. The match gives the national team another chance to build rhythm and test itself against overseas opposition.
Panama City’s Mercado de Mariscos will close its seafood sales area on April 6 for a deep cleaning, while restaurants reopen at 1:00 p.m. Regular hours return on April 7.
Caja de Ahorros said it has provided financial education to more than 5,900 women between 2025 and 2026. The effort supports financial inclusion and stronger money-management skills in Panama.
Panama City will open an inflatable waterpark on April 4, adding a family-friendly attraction to its spring break lineup. The seasonal setup is aimed at visitors looking for more than just a beach day.
The IMA announced that its fairs, stores and distributors will close for Holy Week. Residents are being urged to plan ahead and make purchases before the holiday shutdown.
Holy Week coverage from Casco Antiguo will spotlight Martes Santo, honoring security forces and the Cristo de la Buena Muerte in a key Panama City tradition.
The Panama Canal is seeing increased traffic as the war in the Middle East pushes more ships to seek a safer, shorter route. The shift highlights the canal’s continuing strategic importance in global trade.