President José Raúl Mulino signed an Executive Decree ordering all national and municipal public offices to close at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23. The measure allows government employees to support the Panama National Team in its second match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Panama faces Croatia at Toronto Stadium in Canada.
The decree, numbered No. 20 and dated June 22, 2026, mandates uninterrupted work schedules until the early closure time. No entity can establish different hours than those specified in the document. The government wants workers to join the national celebration.
Official Justification for the Closure
The executive branch emphasized the historic nature of this sporting event. Panama is competing in only its second World Cup appearance. The document states that while players prepare to give their best on the field, fans are organizing to support with enthusiasm and passion.
“We consider it appropriate to establish a special schedule for public servants,” the decree reads. [Translated from Spanish] “This allows them to participate in this moment of national unity.”
The decree allows officials to support Panama’s representation against Croatia in the team’s first commitment of the World Cup tournament.
Essential Services Remain Operational
Several critical institutions are exempt from the closure. Hospitals, clinics, and health centers operated by the Social Security Fund and the Ministry of Health will continue normal operations. The National Aqueduct and Sewerage Institute, known as Idaan, must also stay open.
Emergency response agencies remain fully staffed. These include the Fire Department, the National Civil Protection System, and the National Police. Security forces will maintain their regular presence throughout the country.
Transportation services continue without interruption. The Panama Metro, MiBus, and Tocumen International Airport operate on normal schedules. The National Migration Service and the National Customs Authority also remain open.
Banking institutions follow special regulations issued by the Superintendency of Banks. The Panama Canal Authority is completely excluded from the measure based on its legal framework.
Administrative Procedures Suspended
The decree suspends all deadlines in administrative proceedings during the established closure period. This applies to any pending cases or filings across government agencies. The measure takes effect immediately upon its promulgation.
This decision marks a significant gesture from the government. The 2026 FIFA World Cup has generated enormous excitement across Panama. Thousands of fans are expected to gather at viewing parties and public spaces.
The Panama National Team’s qualification for the World Cup has united the country. Schools have already authorized students to wear red sweaters or national team jerseys. The Ministry of Education issued that directive ahead of the Croatia match.
National Celebration Intensifies
Panama’s second World Cup appearance represents a major milestone. The team first qualified in 2018, sparking nationwide celebrations. This year’s tournament has brought even greater anticipation.
Fans across the country are preparing for the match against Croatia. Croatia finished third in the 2022 World Cup. Panama faces a tough opponent but carries the hopes of an entire nation.
The government closure affects hundreds of thousands of public employees. Workers will leave their posts at 2:00 p.m. to join family and friends for the match. The game represents more than sports for many Panamanians.
It symbolizes national pride and international recognition. The Panama National Team carries the flag for a small nation on the world stage. Every goal, every save, every moment matters.
President Mulino’s decree reflects the collective spirit gripping the country. Government offices will reopen Wednesday morning under normal schedules. For one afternoon, however, the nation stops to cheer.