Thousands of workers from various labor unions gathered in Panama City on May 1, 2026, to commemorate International Workers’ Day. The demonstration started at Porras Park with a morning mass.
Union leaders then delivered speeches about ongoing labor struggles. They called for dialogue with the government and an end to what they described as persecution of union activists. The event drew participants from multiple sectors including education and public services.
Fernando Ábrego, secretary general of the Association of Public Officials of the Ministry of Education (Asoprof), spoke directly to the government. “We take into consideration that there cannot be a single voice in a democracy. There must be several voices. Much less can you use force to impose your will even when you do not have reason and the law does not support you,” Ábrego said. [Translated from Spanish]
“We have to keep fighting and defending our rights for democracy, for the Rule of law and the rights of the working class. That is why we are here today on May 1, 2026,” Ábrego added. [Translated from Spanish]
Alberto Díaz, a leader of the Association of Retired Teachers of the Republic of Panama (Asomogrerp), also addressed the crowd. He made a direct appeal to the Mulino administration.
“We want to make a call to the government. It is time for dialogue. It is time to talk. It is time to review everything related to free, union and guild life in this country,” Díaz said. [Translated from Spanish]
“Let us stop the persecution against those who fight, against that educator, against that female or male worker,” Díaz continued. [Translated from Spanish]
Individual workers also shared their personal stories during the event. Deikarina Castro, a street vendor, described her daily routine. “Yes, we work. We leave early in the morning, at 2 in the morning, to take breakfast to people,” Castro said. [Translated from Spanish]
Castro explained how her work supports her family. “My family, I pay for my house, fix my things, with my granddaughter. Look, I have spent so much time that now even my granddaughter helps me,” she added. [Translated from Spanish]
Union Coalitions Demand Policy Changes
The May Day march included members from major labor coalitions. Groups such as the National Union of Workers of Panama and the Single Union of Construction Workers participated. These organizations have been pushing for pension reforms and wage increases.
Panama’s Trade unions in Panama have historically used May Day to pressure governments. This year’s event comes amid rising living costs and debates over social security funding.
Union leaders said they will continue mobilizing if the government does not respond. The administration of President José Raúl Mulino has not issued an official statement about the protest. However, government spokespeople have previously expressed willingness to meet with labor representatives.
The march ended peacefully in the afternoon. Participants dispersed after walking several blocks through central Panama City. Organizers confirmed they plan similar actions in the coming months if their demands remain unmet.
Panamá conmemora el Día del Trabajador con sindicatos divididos. Mientras un grupo optó por misa y tamboritos, otros salieron a la calle en marcha desde el Parque Porras hasta la Plaza Cinco de Mayo. Dos formas de protestar, una misma fecha. pic.twitter.com/gr7LCb7Tx7
— Diario Critica.Pa (@criticaenlinea) May 1, 2026