Author: Sebastian Pieper
Copa Airlines and the Panamanian Football Federation have launched a national contest inviting citizens to design the exterior of the airplane that will carry the National Team to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Dubbed “El Avión de la Sele,” the initiative aims to transform local creativity into a flying symbol of national pride following Panama’s qualification for the tournament. The contest opens on November 24 and will run through December 10.This collaborative project seeks to channel the widespread excitement across the country into a unique artistic endeavor. The winning design will be applied to a Boeing aircraft in the Copa…
The Panama Maritime Authority has authorized two tourist transport companies to resume ferry service to Taboga Island starting Thursday. This decision follows a midday meeting between authorities and island residents that failed to resolve a contentious fare increase dispute. Five vessels will gradually join the maritime transport service for Taboga residents, offering accessible rates and comfortable conditions according to officials.One ferry is already operational, with two more scheduled to begin service next week. The remaining two boats are completing necessary procedures to enter the market. The resumption comes after heightened tensions between private operators and the local community over transportation…
A judge in Panama has ordered the provisional detention of a man accused of a serious sexual assault against two foreign women on Isla Colon. The Office of the Municipal Personero (Ombudsman) in Isla Colon, located within the popular tourist region of Bocas del Toro Province, successfully petitioned the court for the measure. This decision follows an incident reported on November 22 inside a commercial establishment.The ruling came after the Public Prosecutor’s Office presented compelling evidence gathered during initial investigative steps. These procedures were conducted in coordination with national security forces. The evidence reportedly substantiates the suspect’s alleged involvement in…
An independent audit of the controversial Donoso mine will conclude by the end of February 2025. Panama’s Ministry of Commerce and Industries confirmed the timeline this week, marking a pivotal moment for a project that has sparked intense national debate over economic development and environmental protection.Alfredo Burgos, the National Director of Mineral Resources at the ministry, stated that the comprehensive review has entered its final phase. He emphasized that the process is adhering to its established technical schedule. The audit’s completion will provide the government with a complete diagnostic of the mine’s current situation, officials said.Burgos explained that the findings…
Panama’s Social Security Fund is conducting an internal investigation after more than 2,300 patients overwhelmed the City of Health facility on Monday, November 24, 2025. The unexpected crowd created long lines and tense scenes as people sought medical appointments for 2026. CSS Director Dino Mon personally intervened to manage the logistics, calling the situation a potential internal sabotage while acknowledging systemic healthcare challenges.The chaos began early Monday morning when patients arrived at the facility after hearing through informal channels that 2026 appointments were opening. Director Mon confirmed the institution never authorized this specific date for scheduling. He attributed the massive…
The Panamanian government has authorized a major national contract for specialized medical waste disposal. The Cabinet Council of Panama approved the direct contract on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.This agreement between the Ministry of Health and the company Construcciones, Limpiezas y Equipo, S.A. totals $20.4 million. It covers a comprehensive 12-month service for the specialized handling of hazardous hospital waste across the country. Officials described the contract as essential for protecting public health and the environment from the dangers of improperly managed medical materials.Securing a Critical Public Health ServiceFive different companies participated in the procurement process with their offers for the…
A national patient federation has formally challenged Panama’s Social Security Fund over a major drug procurement process. The Federation of Associations of Patients with Critical, Chronic and Degenerative Diseases (Fenaeccd) raised alarms about potential safety gaps in the upcoming purchase of biotechnological drugs. The Ministry of Health has now confirmed it is reviewing national regulations governing these complex treatments.The controversy centers on public tender LPU 05-2026, a $84.6 million acquisition of medications scheduled for December. Patient advocates argue the bidding documents lack specific requirements to guarantee the quality and efficacy of the biological products. These drugs are essential for managing…
Panamanian judicial authorities have launched a new public safety campaign targeting a surge in online shopping scams. The Dirección de Investigación Judicial (DIJ) reported a significant increase in complaints linked to fraudulent transactions on social media platforms and unverified websites. This warning comes as more consumers turn to digital marketplaces for their purchases, creating fresh opportunities for criminals.Officials detailed specific precautions that buyers must take to avoid financial loss. Their primary advice focuses on verifying seller identities and choosing secure payment and meeting locations.Do Not Send Advance PaymentsVladimir Gonzalez, head of the Cybercrime Unit at the Judicial Investigation Directorate, emphasized…
The Panamanian government authorized a major aviation purchase this week to strengthen national security operations. The Cabinet Council (Panama) approved the acquisition of two new helicopters for the country’s aeronaval service. Officials allocated more than ten million dollars from an insurance payout linked to a previous aircraft accident.This significant investment aims to restore critical operational capabilities that have diminished due to an aging fleet. The new aircraft will enhance surveillance and rapid response across Panama’s diverse and challenging geography.Funding Sourced from Insurance RecoveryApproval for the purchase came during a session held this Tuesday. The council greenlit an expenditure of $10,490,066,…
The Panama Canal Authority will begin meetings next week with companies interested in bidding on two new port terminal projects. Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez confirmed the schedule as part of the waterway’s broader strategy to diversify its services beyond traditional transits. These port developments represent a significant expansion of the Canal’s logistical capabilities.Vásquez revealed that the meetings for the Corozal and Isla Telfers terminals will start Monday. Multiple Asian companies and firms from other global regions have already expressed interest in participating. The bidding process comes as the Canal reports a seven percent increase in transits during October, demonstrating continued shipping…