Author: Sebastian Pieper

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Panama’s National Secretariat for Science, Technology, and Innovation (Senacyt) have launched a new pilot program. This initiative, called the IHCAVA Ideathon and Hackathon, aims to generate technological solutions for the agricultural sector in Chiriquí province. The program officially began its first phase in late January 2026. Designed to strengthen the local agro-industrial value chain, the project connects farmers, agricultural businesses, and tech talent. Its core objective is to transform persistent field challenges into scalable, practical innovations. The Organization for Innovation and Business Culture (INNOBUC) is providing advisory support alongside specialized mentors. “This project…

The 42nd annual Santa Fe Fair is drawing crowds this weekend in the mountainous Province of Veraguas. Local agricultural producers are the central focus, highlighting the deep-rooted farming traditions that define the district’s identity and economy.Farmers from areas like El Pantano are displaying traditional crops including cinnamon, toasted rice, bananas, and cocoa. Many utilize low-chemical, natural growing practices. The event acts as a vital platform for promoting local tourism and sustainable economic development in the region.Historic Cocoa Production Remains a Community CornerstoneAmong the traditional products, cocoa stands out for its historical, nutritional, and commercial significance. Local producer Leopoldo González explained…

The Panamanian Ministry of Environment has issued a temporary permit for the extraction of surface water from specific rivers for recreational use during the upcoming 2026 Carnival. Officials announced the resolution this week, aiming to balance festive traditions with critical water resource protection during the country’s dry season.This regulatory move, formalized by Resolution DM-0028-2026, creates a legal framework for a common practice. It seeks to prevent the unauthorized and potentially damaging use of water from protected underground sources. The policy applies to all Carnival and “Carnavalitos” events scheduled for next year.”The extraction will only be allowed in rivers, streams, and…

Thousands of Catholic faithful filled the streets of Panama City this Saturday for the annual procession honoring Saint John Bosco. The event, held every January 31st, began at the Minor Basilica dedicated to the saint and wound through nearby neighborhoods. Participants of all ages joined the religious walk, one of the most deeply rooted traditions in the local Catholic calendar. Families, parish groups, and educational communities linked to the saint’s work participated in the afternoon event. A Tradition of Faith and Community The procession marks the feast day of Saint John Bosco, the 19th-century Italian priest revered for his dedication…

Copa Airlines will introduce inflight internet connectivity across its entire fleet starting in October 2026. The Panamanian carrier confirmed the long-awaited move this week, marking a strategic shift to meet modern passenger demands and competitive pressures in the Latin American aviation market. For years, the airline had been a notable holdout among major regional carriers, operating its extensive network without onboard Wi-Fi. The announcement, made on the company’s official social media channels, signals a direct response to evolving traveler behavior where connectivity is now a key factor in flight selection. “The wait is over: Wi-Fi is coming to our aircraft.…

The Municipality of Panama City is currently constructing multiple public works projects in its central and eastern sectors. Officials say these initiatives aim to directly improve living conditions for thousands of residents through enhanced accessibility and sanitation. The projects include new pedestrian bridges and extensive drainage and waste collection operations. Construction is underway on two pedestrian walkways in the Las Garzas and Génesis de Las Mañanitas neighborhoods. These structures are designed to improve safety and mobility for residents in areas with significant foot traffic. In parallel, municipal teams are executing environmental management work, focusing on cleaning critical drainage systems and…

Panama’s Ministry of Public Works has committed over $1.22 billion to 37 national road projects. Minister Iván De Ycaza announced the massive infrastructure plan this week at the Expo Máquina 2026 opening in Panama City. The investment is projected to create approximately 10,000 direct jobs and more than 30,000 indirect positions. Officials framed the move as a direct stimulus for the national economy during the industry trade fair. Minister De Ycaza provided a detailed update on the portfolio of projects. He specifically highlighted progress on the country’s most significant infrastructure undertaking. “The Fourth Bridge over the Panama Canal, the flagship…

The Panama City Mayor’s Office has ordered temporary closures for two of the city’s major public food markets. The Seafood Market closed on Monday, February 2, 2026, with the San Felipe Neri Market scheduled to close the following Monday, February 9. Officials say the shutdowns are necessary to conduct intensive monthly cleaning and disinfection procedures.These actions are part of a scheduled maintenance program managed by the city’s Municipal Markets Directorate. The directorate oversees all public food retail centers and mandates these deep-cleaning sessions. The goal is to reinforce sanitation and safety standards for the thousands of vendors and customers who…

The United States Ambassador to Panama, Kevin Marino Cabrera, has publicly endorsed a landmark Supreme Court decision that nullified a major ports concession. Cabrera called the ruling a strong affirmation of the rule of law in Panama during a statement issued from Panama City.Panama’s Supreme Court of Panama declared the contract with the Panama Ports Company unconstitutional on January 29, 2026. The concession had granted the firm control over the strategic Balboa and Cristobal port terminals for over three decades.Diplomatic Praise for Judicial IndependenceAmbassador kevin marino cabrera framed the court’s action as a positive signal for investors and national governance.…

Panama’s Supreme Court has declared the concession contract for the country’s two largest ports unconstitutional. President Jose Raul Mulino announced a contingency plan on Friday, January 30, 2026, to ensure operational continuity at the critical Balboa and Cristobal terminals following the landmark judicial decision.The court’s ruling, delivered on Thursday, January 29, invalidates the legal framework that has allowed Panama Ports Company (PPC) to operate the strategic facilities for nearly three decades. The government immediately activated a prepared transition strategy to prevent disruption to a key pillar of the national economy and global trade routes.Government Activates Contingency Plan for Port TransitionPresident…