The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
China has increased port inspections of Panamanian-flagged vessels after a Panamanian court voided contracts for two Canal ports run by HK-based CK Hutchison; Tokyo MOU data show a sharp rise in detentions this March.
Rising fuel and freight costs are driving up food production and import expenses in Panama, hitting items like garlic and raising concerns among farmers about squeezed margins and future price increases.
A La Prensa opinion piece spotlights Chiriquí’s regional pride and agricultural resilience, arguing that the province’s identity and hard work are central to its development.
Meduca is using extended contracts and leftover nutritional products to sustain parts of Panama’s school snack program while three major tenders—totaling over $29.6M—are evaluated.
The Panama Canal Authority is finalizing housing designs and begins land and home appraisals in April for the Río Indio reservoir resettlement, covering about 500 families with $400M in social and environmental measures.
Canal Bank has named veteran banker Gina de Sáenz as General Manager to lead a governance and growth-focused strategy, backed by US$45 million in 2025 capital contributions.
Newsroom Panama published a brief post titled “Your Morning Smile,” asking readers to send humorous submissions to PanamaNewsroom@gmail.com to contribute to the site’s lighthearted feature.
Coach Broos has named Zwane in his final Bafana squad for two home World Cup warm-up friendlies against Panama at Moses Mabhida, a selection Broos defended publicly.
Hugo Broos has named Zwane in his final Bafana Bafana squad for two home friendlies against Panama at Moses Mabhida, matches described as World Cup warm-ups, SABC Sport reports.
The National Assembly debated a bill to reform the Judicial Code and modernize Panama’s notarial system on March 20, 2026; heated exchanges led to the session being suspended.
Repairs to the andas in Casco Antiguo have begun ahead of Semana Santa Internacional 2026. The Comité de Amigos de las Iglesias says first rehearsals are set for March 22.
Medcom signed an agreement to provide coverage for the 14th Panama International Film Festival, which will feature seven Panamanian productions and boost visibility for the country’s film industry.
Meta announced parental administration options for WhatsApp accounts, allowing parents to manage interactions and profiles; psychologists have reacted positively. The move could affect digital parenting practices in Panama.
Panama’s national commission held its first meeting of the year, emphasizing efforts to promote family values and good customs at home and signaling possible future initiatives.
Experts warn that continued conflict in the Middle East could push crude oil to record levels; Panama has already seen a 20% jump in 95-octane gasoline and nearly 30% rise in diesel over the past month.
Health Minister Fernando Boyd announced a convocation for national and foreign medical specialists to address a shortage of professionals, noting the issue is not unique to Panama.
Panama’s Supreme Court ruled the First Superior Tribunal erred by removing Ronny Mizrachi from the Odebrecht trial, restoring the trial judge’s authority to weigh evidence and determine participation.
BNamericas asked whether Panama needs a third mobile operator, reigniting debate about competition, investment and regulatory choices in the country’s telecom sector.
Panamanian experts recommend that parents set device-use schedules and enable parental controls to protect children’s digital wellbeing and support healthy habits.
Panama’s National Police said they located in Burunga the vehicle used in a shooting on a coaster bus in Arraiján that injured two passengers. The investigation is ongoing.