Panama’s Social Security Fund has set May 19 as the payment date for retirees and pensioners for the second half of May 2026. Beneficiaries will receive funds through ACH or cheque.
President José Raúl Mulino said the possible re-election of Jorge Herrera is an internal matter for the National Assembly. Lawmakers will choose their new board of directors on July 1.
Xi Jinping and Donald Trump opened talks in Beijing by casting U.S.-China ties as “constructive, strategic and stable.” The message signals an effort to prevent a fresh escalation in a relationship that affects global trade and diplomacy.
President José Raúl Mulino described Panama’s OECD accession as a long-term process that likely will not be completed during his term. He framed the bid as a future-oriented national goal tied to Panama’s broader modernization agenda.
Panama’s president ruled out negotiations with gangs after recent drug seizures and operations targeting criminal networks linked to contaminated containers in ports. The remarks highlight a hardline stance on organized crime and port security.
President José Raúl Mulino defended the rise in Panama’s state payroll, saying new schools and hospitals require more staff. He also rejected claims that the hiring reflects unnecessary government posts.
A BRICS meeting has been overtaken by the war on Iran, forcing major emerging economies to confront a crisis that could shake energy markets and global trade. The conflict carries indirect but real risks for Panama and Latin America through higher costs and shipping disruption.
Panama’s Public Ministry warned of rising scams and new fraud tactics, including criminals posing as bank, phone company, or institutional staff. The alert urges the public to verify identities before sharing information.
San Miguelito representative Guillermo García Rivas is urging a deeper analysis before mobility restrictions are expanded in the district. He says insecurity in areas like Belisario Frías and Arnulfo Arias needs social intervention, not restrictions alone.
Panama is approaching one million visitors in the first quarter of 2026, while tourism spending in the opening months reached $2 billion. The figures highlight the sector’s growing role in the national economy.
President José Raúl Mulino held his weekly conference on May 14 before inaugurating the Anillo Hidráulico de Panamá Norte in Guarumal. The event highlighted the government’s infrastructure focus in Panama Norte.
Russian strikes across Ukraine killed seven people and injured dozens, with Kyiv among the areas hit. The attack highlights the continuing civilian toll of the war.
Specialists in Panama warn that bullying is becoming harder to contain as digital platforms keep harassment going beyond the classroom. The shift to online abuse is making school violence more persistent and more damaging for students.
At least 96 people were killed by duststorms and lightning in northern India during the pre-monsoon season, when severe weather is common. The deaths underscore the deadly risks of extreme seasonal storms.
Panama’s strategic location and services-based economy give it room to strengthen growth through freer markets and pro-business reform. The country’s future competitiveness may depend on how well it supports private enterprise.
Panama’s Maritime Chamber is urging an urgent update to the country’s maritime strategy to protect its logistics hub status and support jobs. The call comes as new port investments, Canal-linked projects and regional competition reshape the sector.
Panama could raise up to US$177.5 million from planned 5G licenses, underscoring the fiscal and economic stakes of the country’s next mobile rollout. The move could also speed digital upgrades for businesses and consumers.
Xi Jinping warned Donald Trump that a dispute over Taiwan could push US-China relations into dangerous territory. The warning underscores a flashpoint with major implications for global trade and security.
Panama Canal transit auction fees have climbed to US$4 million, reflecting strong demand for limited passage slots. The increase highlights the canal’s central role in global trade and Panama’s logistics economy.
Trump and Xi highlighted the importance of US-China relations as tensions over trade, technology and security continue to shape the global economy. The outcome matters for Panama through trade, shipping and wider Latin American diplomacy.