Panama has launched a major relief operation for Venezuela following a devastating earthquake. The first shipments of Humanitarian aid to Venezuela arrived Saturday at Maiquetia Simon Bolivar Airport outside Caracas. A team of 50 rescuers and two canine units departed Panama City on June 27 to join the search for survivors trapped in collapsed structures.
The operation marks one of the largest international rescue missions coordinated by Panama in recent years. Officials confirmed that 17 tons of food and essential supplies have already been shipped by sea. A separate airlift is being organized for additional provisions collected at donation centers across the country.
First Lady’s office staff managed the collection drive at Omar Park in Panama City. Local residents and foreign nationals contributed non-perishable food, bottled water, hygiene products, clothing, and toilet paper. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, forcing organizers to temporarily suspend new donations until existing supplies are sorted and dispatched.
‘The solidarity of the Panamanian people has been extraordinary. We are coordinating with multiple government agencies to ensure aid reaches those who need it most as quickly as possible’ [Translated from Spanish]
The Agricultural Marketing Institute mobilized trucks to transport donations to the port for maritime shipment. State entities including the National Police and Transit Operations Directorate have provided escorts for supply convoys heading to Panama Pacifico Airport. The logistical chain continues operating through the Humanitarian Hub, where donations are organized on pallets for outgoing flights.
Rescue Teams Deploy to Collapse Sites
The first rescue unit arrived at Maiquetia Simon Bolivar Airport late Friday night. Panamanian Consul Susana Thornhill greeted the team upon landing. They registered immediately with the United Nations Reception and Departure Center before joining search efforts at collapsed building sites.
A second group of specialists landed Saturday evening. The National Aeronaval Service deployed nine members from its Search and Rescue Department, all trained in collapsed structure operations. One rescue paramedic also joined the mission. The AN-255 C212 AVIOCAR aircraft and its crew remain stationed at the airport, providing 25 flight hours for logistical support, transport of supplies, and movement of rescue personnel.
The Maiquetia Simon Bolivar Airport has become the central hub for international relief efforts. Consular staff coordinated pickup of 34 people who arrived in Valencia via a COPA commercial flight Thursday evening. The Panama-Venezuela rescue operation continues expanding as additional teams prepare to deploy.
The Ministry of Public Security also conducted collection drives for essential items. Authorities are now searching for additional warehouse space to handle the volume of donations. The emergency response remains active as rescue crews work around the clock to locate survivors beneath the rubble.