What Happened
Panama paid tribute to two influential figures, Luis H. Moreno and Roberto Motta Alvarado, during Sunday’s Eucharistic celebration, where Archbishop José Domingo Ulloa highlighted their service to the country and their ties to Church-led works in Panama.
Ulloa described both men as people who left a mark on national life through testimony, service, and commitment. He also extended condolences to their families and called for prayers for eternal life and strength in faith.
Luis H. Moreno’s Banking Career
Moreno, who was born in Chitré, built a long career in finance and civic life. He began at The Chase Manhattan Bank in David, where he earned a reputation as a “banker on horseback” while traveling to farms across Chiriquí province to serve clients.
His career later took him to New York, where in 1970 he became the first Panamanian to serve as general manager and president of The Chase Manhattan Bank. That achievement made him one of the country’s most prominent banking leaders on the international stage.
In 1990, Moreno took charge of Banco Nacional de Panamá at a difficult moment for the financial system. He also became part of the economic team in the government of Guillermo Endara Galimany, contributing to efforts aimed at stabilizing public finances during a period of institutional weakness and fiscal strain.
Roberto Motta Alvarado’s Role in Business and Education
Motta Alvarado held shares and leadership roles in several major Panamanian institutions, including Banco General, La Prensa, ASSA Compañía de Seguros, Gold Mills, and Calox. His career linked business leadership with public life and education.
He also helped found Universidad Católica Santa María La Antigua, reflecting his commitment to higher education in Panama. Beyond the corporate world, he was active in civic organizations, including Club Rotario Panamá Sur, the Asociación de Ejecutivos de Empresa, and the Chamber of Commerce.
Motta Alvarado also took part in the Cruzada Civilista, underscoring his involvement in civic activism and national life.
Why Their Legacies Matter
The recognition of Moreno and Motta Alvarado reflects the influence of leaders whose work reached banking, business, education, and public service. Their careers represent a generation of Panamanians who helped shape key institutions and supported national development through private initiative and civic participation.
At a time when finance, commerce, and education continue to play central roles in Panama’s long-term growth, their lives stand as examples of leadership tied to institution-building and public responsibility.