Panama remains under vigilance after the first Sahara dust plume of the season arrived, affecting parts of the country through Sunday night. Officials warn of hazy skies and possible respiratory irritation in exposed areas.
A criminal complaint filed by Vamos against Panama’s comptroller has intensified scrutiny over unpaid leave arrangements involving National Assembly collaborators. The case adds legal pressure to an already sensitive institutional dispute.
Panama’s Health Ministry announced new May 2026 service days for white and green card processing and renewals. The cards remain an important requirement for food handlers across the country.
Panama has confirmed a second imported measles case in a traveler who entered through Tocumen Airport, following an earlier case in a Dutch citizen crossing from Costa Rica. The cases highlight the public health risks that come with international travel.
The Dr. Carlos N. Brin Polyclinic in San Francisco will partially suspend emergency services on May 9 for cleaning. The temporary change may affect patients seeking urgent care in Panama City.
Panama has issued a preventive advisory for rough seas along the Pacific coast, in force from Friday afternoon through late Monday. The warning is aimed at protecting coastal activity and maritime operations during the affected period.
Colón is debating the future of its garbage collection service as the current contract remains in force until 2027. The mayor’s proposed mixed-company model has not yet won approval in the municipal council.
The National Lottery of Panama released the Gordito del Zodiaco results for May 8, 2026. The draw remains a popular fixture in Panama’s lottery culture.
Panama City Hall has called a public hearing on municipal projects and safety as part of a program to prioritize local investments. The process is intended to guide spending on works and services that improve life in the capital district.
The United States has disabled two more Iranian tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, intensifying tensions in a vital global shipping lane. The escalation raises new questions about the durability of a fragile ceasefire and possible market fallout.
IFARHU is continuing the 2026 General Scholarship Competition process and has already served thousands of preselected students. The program remains a key source of educational support for families in Panama.
Chiriquí has named Carlos Lee III as its manager for the 2027 national championship, bringing him back to lead one of Panama’s strongest provincial baseball teams. The move follows Alberto Macré’s run to this year’s final.
Laura Fernandez has been inaugurated as Costa Rica’s new president, marking a right-wing shift in one of Latin America’s most stable democracies. The change could shape regional diplomacy and cooperation with Panama.
Carlos Pérez Herrera, former representative of San Francisco, has been charged with alleged embezzlement in a case tied to decentralization funds. The case highlights continued scrutiny over the use of public money in Panama’s local governments.
A Mexican man wanted by U.S. authorities for child sexual abuse was arrested at Tocumen Airport in Panama while transiting from Medellín to Mexico. Immigration and police officers detained him after international alerts were activated.
Panama’s U-17 national team will compete in the Canteras de América tournament in Rosario, Argentina, from May 17 to 22 as part of its buildup to the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026. The squad, coached by Felipe Baloy, opens group play against Alianza Lima.
Stronger tanker demand has pushed Panama Canal traffic to a multiyear high, underscoring the waterway’s role in global energy and shipping routes. The surge highlights Panama’s continuing importance in international maritime trade.
The Panama Canal Authority advanced its 2025-2035 strategy after meeting with its Advisory Board, focusing on talent, leadership, digital transformation, and sustainability. The plan aims to strengthen the canal’s long-term competitiveness and institutional resilience.
Albrook station will open at 9:00 a.m. Sunday as Metro de Panamá works to integrate Lines 1 and 3. The schedule change affects a key transit hub in Panama City.
Colón recorded its first dengue death of the year after a 60-year-old man died from the illness, according to the Ministry of Health. Authorities are urging residents to allow inspections and fumigation to help prevent more cases.