Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino led national celebrations on Monday, November 10, 2025, marking the 204th anniversary of the First Cry of Independence of La Villa de Los Santos. The civic ceremonies in the historic town honored the event that sparked Panama’s separation from Spanish rule. Official events began with the national flag raising at Rufina Alfaro Park.
The annual commemoration recognizes the brave actions of Villa de Los Santos residents in 1821. Their initial declaration of freedom ultimately led to Panama’s full independence just weeks later. This year’s observance featured a significant military and civilian presence, underscoring the day’s enduring national importance.
Official Ceremonies and Presidential Participation
President José Raúl Mulino personally placed a floral offering at the Bust of Liberty following the flag ceremony. He then joined the official delegation on a traditional walk from November 10 Avenue to Simon Bolivar Park. There, the president presided over a second flag raising ceremony, a central moment in the day’s protocol activities.
“We are here to remember the courage of those who gave us a free homeland,” President Mulino stated during the proceedings. [Translated from Spanish]
The government delegation included cabinet ministers, local officials, and cultural representatives. Their coordinated movements between historic sites traced the path of the original independence leaders. This symbolic journey connected present-day Panama with its revolutionary past.
Traditional Parade and Special Honoree
Following the morning ceremonies, the schedule called for the traditional parade featuring at least 70 delegations. Marching bands, school groups, and cultural organizations from across the country were set to participate. The parade typically draws thousands of spectators lining the streets of the colonial town.
Organizers selected Major League Baseball player José Caballero as the flag bearer for this year’s celebration. The Villa de Los Santos native currently plays for the New York Yankees. His designation as abanderado recognized both his athletic achievements and his local roots.
Local media, including prensa panam, provided extensive coverage of the day’s events. Their reporting highlighted the seamless coordination between national and municipal authorities para este important national holiday.
Historical Significance and Religious Observance
The First Cry of Independence on November 10, 1821, represented the initial successful rebellion against Spanish authority in Panama. This bold action by Villa de Los Santos residents created momentum that culminated in Panama’s full Independence of Panama from Spain on November 28, 1821. The town’s early leadership in the independence movement continues to define its place in national history.
The day’s formal events concluded with a mass at Saint Athanasius Church. The traditional Te Deum service provided a spiritual dimension to the patriotic celebration. Religious observances have formed part of Independence Day commemorations since the earliest anniversaries.
Modern celebrations maintain these historic traditions while incorporating contemporary elements. The combination of military protocol, civic participation, and religious observance creates a comprehensive tribute to Panama’s independence legacy. Each element honors different aspects of the nation’s journey to sovereignty.
Panama now looks toward the larger independence celebration on November 28. That date marks the formal declaration when Panama joined Gran Colombia. The November 10 commemoration in Villa de Los Santos serves as the emotional and historical prelude to the main event.
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