If You Don’t Investigate, You’ll Never Know; Panama Canal to Present New Port Projects; Panama Regulates the Medical and Scientific Use of Cannabis.
Friday, October 16, 2025. If You Don’t Investigate, You’ll Never Know One of the most common questions I hear from clients is: “Do you think my case even has any value? Should I bother investigating this?” My answer never changes: if you don’t investigate, you’ll never know. Investigations are like opening doors in a dark hallway. You never know which one leads to the truth until you start turning the handle. Some doors reveal nothing of consequence. Others lead to entire rooms of hidden detail that can redefine the case, the company, or even someone’s future. That’s why it’s so important to stay disciplined. A good investigator always keeps sight of the primary objective; the “why” behind the assignment. At the same time, we can’t ignore what surfaces along the way. The best findings often appear when we’re pursuing something else entirely. We just have to recognize when a discovery has potential merit and when it’s better to set it aside for later review. A recent case reminded us of this principle in full. An employee filed a report about a “minor collision” involving a company vehicle. Nothing about it seemed remarkable at first glance, except for one detail: the report came in several days late. That simple irregularity became the thread we decided to pull. When we began looking closer, the story quickly changed. The “minor collision” was actually a total loss that happened on a day the employee wasn’t scheduled to work. The car wasn’t where it was supposed to be. There were unauthorized passengers, personal tools loaded in the back, and even a dog in the vehicle. He claimed he was visiting a client, but when we obtained video of the accident and photos of the aftermath, he appeared disheveled, wearing torn clothes, and clearly had not been conducting business. Those inconsistencies led to deeper background checks, timeline reviews, and financial audits. Before long, the investigation exposed something much larger: a pattern of embezzlement and misuse of company resources that had gone unnoticed for months. All of it began with one seemingly insignificant “collision.” That’s the nature of investigation. Sometimes a case begins as a whisper and ends in a revelation. The truth rarely announces itself; it hides in habits, details, and coincidences. Our role as investigators is to listen carefully to those whispers and follow them wherever they lead. So when clients ask whether their case has value, I remind them: the real value of an investigation lies not in what you expect to find, but in what you discover along the way. At B.M. Investigations, we believe that every unanswered question deserves light. Because if you don’t investigate, you’ll never know. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Panama Canal to Present New Port Projects to the Market On October 27, the Panama Canal will present port projects around the waterway, necessary to expand transshipment capacity in the area that is already at its limit, stated the waterway’s administrator, Ricaurte Vásquez. The development of new ports on both the Pacific side (Corozal) and the Atlantic side (Telfers) is part of the plans being analyzed by the Canal, which also include the construction of a gas pipeline, an initiative that was already presented to the market last September. Vásquez explained that approximately “21 million containers” move through the Canal, of which “15 million” are transshipped, and the “capacity of the ports” around the waterway “is now practically at its limit.” “There is a significant opportunity for the Canal because 72% of container ships transiting the Canal call at Panamanian ports, and the need for docking ports is important for the sustainability of the container business,” which is the main activity of the interoceanic waterway, the administrator highlighted. Panama’s five main ports are located around the interoceanic Canal and are operated through tenders by companies from the U.S., Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore. The Corozal project, a port with a cost of at least $1.3 billion, was tendered in March 2017 but the process was left void after the prequalified companies did not submit a formal bid. Last July, Panama’s president, José Raúl Mulino, stated that the construction of a new port on the Pacific side of the interoceanic Canal is an “urgent necessity.” According to Mulino, the Corozal port “already has a queue of clients established among international cargo users and handlers (…) they are major operators and transporters of significant cargo, and of course, they know more is coming. More cargo, more movement” in the Canal area. The idea of building new transshipment terminals around the Canal has resurfaced strongly within the framework of the concession transfer process of the Balboa (Pacific) and Cristóbal (Atlantic) ports from the Hong Kong operator CK Hutchison to a consortium made up of the U.S. fund manager BlackRock and Terminal Investment Limited (TiL), the port arm of the shipping giant MSC. This operation, part of the global sale of more than 40 ports operated by CK Hutchison for approximately $23 billion, has been delayed by China amid a geopolitical struggle with the United States. In this scenario, other parties have shown interest in participating in CK Hutchison and BlackRock’s global transaction, such as the Chinese shipping giant Cosco or the French CMA CGM, according to specialized press reports. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE APAMEC Defines Action Plan to Modernize Panama’s Capital Market The Panamanian Capital Market Association (APAMEC) presented the priorities that will guide its management over the next two years, focusing on regulatory modernization, technical training, and strengthening the transparency of the financial system. The announcement was made during the inauguration of the new Board of Directors, led by Patricia Boyd, who stated that the capital market must become “a driver to safeguard the economy and demonstrate to the world that Panama is a reliable, ethical, and secure financial center, where savings are converted into productive investment under clear rules, generating employment, innovation, and competitiveness.” Among the main actions, APAMEC
Pride in Perspective; National Police Deploy 200 Body Cameras; Panama Enters the Era of Telesurgery.
Friday, October 10, 2025. Pride in Perspective: In Light and Shadow Columbus Day is in the news again. Here’s my take on it when it comes to national pride, etc. Frist of all, pride is never a simple declaration. It is at once a source of strength, a door to dignity and also a battleground for contested memory. We wear pride to affirm who we are, and we wrestle with its weight when history reveals its darker corners. Columbus Day was originally reclaimed by Italian Americans in an era of exclusion and prejudice. For immigrants facing hostility, Columbus was less a conquistador and more a symbol: “We belong too, we have contributed greatness.” That narrative of uplift carried forward into a national holiday. Over time, however, more of the story could no longer be ignored when we consider the exploitations, violence, and upheavals that followed in the name of “discovery”. In recent years, many towns and states have shifted toward “Indigenous Peoples’ Day”, choosing to wrestle with the full sweep of history rather than shy away from it. This year, President Trump has publicly declared his intention to reinstate Columbus Day “under the same rules, dates, and locations” as before, calling it a return of honoring “Italian heritage” and resisting what he frames as “left-wing efforts to erase our history.” His rhetoric frames the shift as a battle over identity, symbolism, and memory: is Columbus a national hero to be defended, or a complex figure to be reexamined? Of course, a president cannot unilaterally erase or create federal holidays. Those powers rest with Congress. But the symbolic weight of a public proclamation, especially in our age of culture wars, is heavy. Even in his past proclamations, Trump has framed Columbus Day as an act of cultural defense, warning that “radical activists” seek to tarnish the explorer’s legacy. But let us also turn to Leif Erikson, a figure who so often hovers in the margins of our collective memory. Leif Erikson: The “Viking Discoverer” Leif Erikson, a Norse explorer of Icelandic and Scandinavian lineage, is widely believed to have led the first European expedition to North America (Vinland, likely in Newfoundland) around the year 1000 CE: nearly 500 years before Columbus. The exact date of his arrival is lost to time; the sagas record only that it was in the autumn. The date October 9 was chosen not for a documented landing date but for symbolic resonance as it marks the arrival of the Norwegian ship Restauration to New York Harbor in 1825, which is seen as a milestone in Norwegian-American immigration. Leif Erikson Day became a federal observance via Public Law 88–566 in 1964, instructing the president to proclaim October 9 each year in honor of his legacy and Nordic-American heritage. Each president, Republican or Democrat, since has issued a proclamation. In 2024, for example, the White House honored Erikson “in recognition of Nordic-American heritage.” Across the U.S., states with significant Scandinavian-American populations (Minnesota, Wisconsin, the Dakotas) tend to mark the day more visibly. I remember it to be a great time when we would eat a lot of Smelt and conduct “boil overs”. Yum. The statue of Leif Erikson in Reykjavík (designed by American sculptor Alexander Stirling Calder) stands as a high-profile memorial. In Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, historically rich in Scandinavian heritage, a bronze Leif Erikson statue has served as a local landmark and a rallying point for community celebrations. Leif’s legacy also reminds us that history is rarely singular. His journey is less about replacing Columbus and more about broadening our lens, to honor multiple lines of heritage and to recognize that discovery, identity, and legacy are contested terrains. His landing on the shores of North America nearly five centuries before Columbus reminds us that achievement wears many faces, often forgotten ones. His commemoration came from Scandinavian-Americans who, too, sought acknowledgment of their place in the American story. Pride, then, is not the enemy. It’s the mirror. It reflects what we value and challenges us to ensure that our pride builds rather than divides. Whether it’s pride in heritage, in progress, or in perseverance, what matters most is that it’s tempered by humility and guided by truth. May this month’s reflection on pride remind us to celebrate achievement without losing sight of compassion, and to carry forward the best of who we are together. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: National Police Now Using 200 Body Cameras to Record Interventions Across the Country Around 200 body cameras distributed nationwide are now being used by the National Police to document incidents that occur during officers’ interventions. According to the institution, these devices were first implemented in 2020 and are used in preventive, investigative, and operational activities, based on requests from the competent authorities. Their distribution mainly covers the provinces of Panama, Colón, Panama Oeste, Chiriquí, and the central provinces, prioritizing areas with a higher incidence of incidents related to police conduct. The use of the cameras aims to ensure transparency in procedures, support judicial investigations, and provide evidence of officers’ work, in accordance with established protocols. Among citizens, opinions are divided: some believe the cameras strengthen trust in police actions. However, others view their implementation unfavorably, arguing that they hinder police work. It is worth noting that Law 466, which regulates the use of body cameras by the police, was enacted and published in the Official Gazette in April of this year. The regulation establishes that officers must inform citizens when they are being recorded during an intervention, although the person’s authorization is not required to begin filming. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Panama Will Remain on the EU’s List of Non-Cooperative Jurisdictions The National Government reported that Panama will remain on the European Union’s list of non-cooperative jurisdictions, which will be updated this month, confirming its inclusion among the eleven territories currently listed. “This does not mean we are being added to a new list; it is one we are already on.
Forgiveness; Panama Inaugurates the Business & Investors’ Day 2025; Colombia–Panama Interconnection.
Friday, October 3, 2025. The Quiet Strength of Forgiveness Yesterday, in the Jewish faith, Yom Kippur was observed; the Day of Atonement. This is a sacred pause, a time of deep reflection, humility, and forgiveness. Though it belongs to one tradition, the essence of this day carries a lesson that belongs to all of us: the human need to ask for forgiveness and the equally human need to extend it. To ask for forgiveness is never easy. It requires us to face ourselves honestly, to set aside pride, and to admit that our words or actions have caused hurt. The timing may vary. Sometimes it must be asked in the quiet immediacy after a wrong has been done, other times it comes much later, when we find the courage to confront what has been left unsaid. Yet whenever it is asked sincerely, forgiveness has the power to soften hearts and heal wounds that might otherwise grow deeper with time. To forgive is just as challenging, but it is also liberating. Forgiveness does not mean that what happened was acceptable, nor does it mean we must continue a relationship that brings harm. A toxic friendship, a fractured family tie, or a pattern of hurtful behavior need not be excused or allowed to repeat. Forgiveness does not bind us to people who damage our peace, it frees us from the chains of resentment they leave behind. True forgiveness is an act of strength. It is the choice to release anger, bitterness, or the need for revenge, and instead to reclaim our own peace of mind. It may restore relationships, or it may allow us to part ways without carrying the heavy weight of what could have been. Both paths hold value, because both are rooted in healing. Why should we ask for forgiveness? Because it honors the humanity in others and in ourselves. Why should we forgive? Because life is too short to live imprisoned by the mistakes of yesterday. Forgiveness clears space for growth, for compassion, and for the possibility of a lighter heart. As this season of atonement reminds us, there is dignity in asking, and there is wisdom in letting go. May we each find the courage to seek forgiveness when it is needed, and the grace to offer it when we are asked. In doing so, we do not erase the past, but we step forward into the future with greater clarity, compassion, and strength. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Panama Inaugurates the Business & Investors’ Day 2025, Showcasing its Potential as a Regional Hub and a Safe Investment Destination Panama officially opened the Business & Investors’ Day 2025 (PBID 2025) this Monday, organized by the Brazil–Panama Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This marks the country’s first major business forum since joining MERCOSUR as an Associated State. The event brought together more than 150 entrepreneurs, investors, and government representatives from across the region, with the goal of positioning Panama as a regional business hub and a reliable destination for foreign capital. At the inaugural ceremony, Minister of Commerce and Industries Julio Moltó stated that “Panama presents itself as a trustworthy and competitive country, opening its doors to South American investments and connecting them with North America, Europe, and the world.” He emphasized that Panama’s integration into MERCOSUR represents “a new era of opportunities to strengthen trade ties and attract investment into the country’s strategic sectors.” Minister of Economy and Finance Felipe Chapman, who participated in the panel “Economic and Trade Outlook”, highlighted that Panama is consolidating itself as “the heart of the Americas” thanks to its strategic location, dollarized economy, institutional stability, and robust logistics and financial platforms. Chapman stressed that, beyond its traditional strengths in logistics and financial services, Panama offers opportunities in high-value tourism, innovative agribusiness (such as Geisha coffee, pitaya, finger lime, and Sindhu mango), digital economy (data centers, fintech, call centers), as well as climate resilience projects, renewable energy, and the circular economy. He further noted that Panama’s air and maritime connectivity—with more than 170 routes and competitive costs—provides access to 90% of Latin American countries within just a few hours. Complementing this are special regimes such as the SEM Law and economic zones that facilitate the establishment of regional headquarters and manufacturing operations, along with more than 23 trade agreements granting preferential access to a market of over three billion people. For his part, Moltó underlined the strength of Panama’s special regimes and its “unique” logistics infrastructure, which he said make Panama the “ideal platform for strategic industries and services that generate sustainable value and position the country as both a point of departure and arrival for regional growth.” The Ambassador of Brazil in Panama, João Mendes Pereira, described PBID 2025 as “a unique platform for Panamanian and Brazilian companies to identify new opportunities for expansion within the framework of MERCOSUR regional integration” and announced that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will visit Panama in 2026. Janaina Tobia Quisinski, President of the Brazil–Panama Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted the Chamber’s role as a bridge between the private sectors of both countries. “Here we provide participants with strategic information, high-level contacts, and concrete business opportunities. We aim to build real opportunities, connect the right people, and forge valuable partnerships so both nations can grow together,” she said. The forum unfolds over two thematic sessions — Business Day and Investors’ Day — featuring conferences on trade, logistics, strategic investment, and Panama’s competitive advantages, as well as panels presenting success stories from international companies such as Tramontina, Wise Tech, EFG Bank, Deloitte, Maersk, Grupo LAFISE, and other regional leaders. In addition to presentations and panels, PBID 2025 includes networking spaces, executive luncheons, and hospitality blocks aimed at fostering strategic partnerships between entrepreneurs, investors, and authorities. By hosting the Business & Investors’ Day 2025, Panama reaffirms its commitment to regional integration and demonstrates its potential as a logistics, financial, and services platform for
How Critical Thinking Actually Works; Multinationals Interested in Panama; Youth Awards.
Friday, September 26, 2025. How Critical Thinking Actually Works (and What It’s Not) We’ve all been there, scrolling through Facebook or sitting at the dinner table when someone drops, “Well, that’s just my critically thought-out opinion.” But if we’re honest, what usually follows isn’t Critical Thinking at all, it’s just an opinion with a shiny name tag. That’s why it helps to take a step back and ask: what is Critical Thinking really, and what is it not? What It Is Not Let’s clear up the myths right away: So What Is It? Critical Thinking is a process. It’s pausing before reacting, asking better questions, and weighing evidence before drawing a conclusion. It looks like this: Why It Matters The fun part is this: Critical Thinking isn’t just for philosophy class or courtrooms. It’s for Facebook threads, office debates, and family dinners. It doesn’t mean we’ll all agree, but it does mean the conversation gets sharper, fairer, and more respectful. At the end of the day, Critical Thinking isn’t about shutting down opinions, it’s about raising the standard for them. If we’re going to throw around the phrase “critically thought out,” let’s actually mean it. The world doesn’t need more loud opinions, it needs clearer thinking. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panamá TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Multinationals Interested in Panama, Government Presented Over $30 Billion in Investments, More Canal Projects The President of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, led the Council of the Americas (COA) forum in New York, an event that sold out its 54 available seats and even had a waiting list due to strong business interest. Among the companies present were Apple, Google, Amazon Web Services, Pfizer, ExxonMobil, Citibank, Chiquita Brands, Visa, and Warner Bros, among others. Mulino stated that “the time to invest in Panama is now” and emphasized that the country’s stability rests on two pillars: a dollarized economy and a pro-investment legal framework. According to the president, this combination explains the interest of multinationals in exploring opportunities for setting up and expanding in Panama. In his remarks, the president presented a portfolio of strategic projects totaling over US$30 billion in public investment, aimed at health, education, transportation, infrastructure, and innovation. Among these, he mentioned Metro Line 3 and the tunnel under the Panama Canal, currently under construction, as well as projects in the study phase such as the Panama–David railway and the electrical interconnection with Colombia. This is complemented by the Panama Canal’s US$8.4 billion portfolio, which includes works such as the Río Indio multipurpose reservoir, designed to secure drinking water for more than two million people and ensure the operation of the Canal for the next 50 years. Mulino also highlighted that in 2024, twelve new companies were established under the multinational headquarters regime, bringing the total to 186, confirming the private sector’s confidence in the country. The presidency also noted that COA President Susan Segal and Board Chairman Andrés Gluski recognized the Panamanian government’s efforts to consolidate Panama as a safe and reliable destination for foreign investment. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Youth Awards: Economic Impact of $30 Million Projected in Panama The celebration of the Youth Awards in Panama has generated a significant economic boost for the country, estimated at $30 million, according to Minister of Culture Maruja Herrera during a press conference on Tuesday. The event, which has brought international artists, hosts, production teams, and thousands of fans to the country, has had a positive impact on hotel occupancy, the gastronomy sector, and tourism in general, according to organizers and local business owners. “In addition to all the economic impact this brings, the creative industry is strengthened, cultural, diplomatic, and artistic exchange is fostered, and, above all, Panama’s cultural richness is showcased to the world,” highlighted Minister Herrera. The official also explained that the National Government allocated $5 million for the organization of the event, as part of a strategy to promote the country as a host for major international productions. The Youth Awards, organized by Univision, have become one of the most important music events in the Latin sphere, and their celebration in Panama represents a platform for global visibility for both national and international artists, as well as for emerging local talent. Business owners in the hotel and gastronomy sectors confirmed that increases in bookings, consumption, and tourist visits have been noticeable in recent days, especially in areas near the event venues. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Panama Canal: U.S. Monitors Ports and the Influence of the CCP The Panama Canal, which handles nearly 40% of U.S. container traffic and represents about $240 billion in annual trade, is once again in the geopolitical spotlight following the announced sale by Hutchison Ports, a Hong Kong-based company that operates both Panamanian ports. Hutchison, controlled by Li Ka-Shing, has been implicated in cases of fentanyl precursor smuggling and is linked to networks that advance the interests of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in the West. The sale of 90% of its ports in Panama has raised international concern, although China is currently maintaining oversight without direct intervention, as long as the new company is not American. U.S. Oversight of Ports Near the Panama Canal The U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform has requested a briefing for October 1, 2025, with the objective of evaluating: Panama has expressed interest in limiting Chinese influence, as evidenced by the termination of the Belt and Road Initiative, but the situation requires constant monitoring due to changes in port operations and potential international tensions. For inquiries or to schedule the briefing, the U.S. Committee provides the contact: (202) 225-5074. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Multinational Companies Launch Academy to Prepare Panamanian Talent and Strengthen Their Workforce Integration Multinational companies established in Panama, through the Chamber of Multinational Companies (Casem), have launched the Academia SEM, a pilot program designed to close the gap between local talent supply and the demand from the global corporate sector, giving more Panamanians the opportunity to work in these
ComicCon Panama; Change in Fuel Prices; MEF Files Complaint Over Hacking; Moody’s to Decide Panama’s Rating in Its Sovereign Committee.
Friday, September 19, 2025. COMICCON Panama For the last few years, my boys have been pestering me to let them dress up in costumes and spend the weekend getting candy and toys. No, it’s not Halloween, it’s COMICCON!!! That’s right, they are absolutely hooked on COMICCON, and this year it’s coming up on us fast being the 19–21 of September. COMICCON isn’t Halloween, but one may say that it’s sort of like a combination of Halloween and Oktoberfest, minus the hangovers and bratwurst. Instead of vampires and superheroes roaming the streets, you’ll find Stormtroopers standing in line for hot dogs, Pikachus taking selfies, and at least three versions of Spider-Man comparing web-slinging poses. Of course, with thousands of people in one place, ComicCon is also a security director’s version of a “Where’s Waldo?” puzzle. You’ve got Darth Vader trying to get through metal detectors with a lightsaber, Deadpools sneaking candy into the venue like it’s contraband, and a couple of suspiciously realistic stormtroopers who make you wonder if they’re guarding the Death Star or the snack bar. Every year I catch myself doing mental “threat assessments” while the boys are just doing costume assessments. They’re deciding which Iron Man suit looks coolest; I’m watching crowd flow and exit routes. They’re chasing toys; I’m counting how many Batmans it would take to hold the line if things got rowdy. But at the end of the day, ComicCon is one of those events that reminds me of why we love what we do. Whether you’re in costume or in plain clothes, everyone’s there to celebrate creativity, stories, and a little bit of organized chaos. And sometimes, the best security plan is simply to join in the fun… just so long as nobody talks me into being Chewbacca again. Brett MikkelsonDirector, B.M. Investigations, Inc. TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Panama Airport Surpasses 13.7 Million Passengers Through August The Tocumen International Airport, Panama’s main gateway and a regional benchmark in air connectivity, recorded a total of 13,773,580 passengers during the first eight months of the year, representing an 8% increase compared to the same period in 2024, equivalent to more than 1,006,497 additional travelers. According to the airport, in August 2025, total passenger traffic reached 1,851,451, with a daily average of 59,724 movements, with Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays, and Mondays being the busiest days. Of this monthly total, 74% were transit or transfer passengers, amounting to 1,365,912 travelers. Regarding visitors entering Panama, 1,882,031 passengers disembarked between January and August, reflecting a 4% increase compared to the same period last year, or 71,854 additional travelers. Meanwhile, passengers departing to international destinations totaled 1,925,779, a level virtually unchanged from 2024 (-529). Air traffic also maintained a positive dynamic. Between January and August, 109,260 flight operations were recorded, representing an 8% increase (7,864 more flights). In August alone, 14,279 operations were registered, 10% more than in the same month of 2024, with a daily average of 413 flights. The monthly breakdown shows that 90% were commercial flights, 7% cargo, 2% general aviation, and 1% special flights such as charter, military, or technical. Currently, Tocumen operates with 15 passenger airlines and 15 cargo airlines, connecting to 86 international destinations in the Americas, Europe, and the Caribbean, reaffirming its position as a strategic regional hub. The top five origin and destination cities in August were led by Bogotá (698,487 passengers), followed by San José (618,552), Miami (602,118), Medellín (578,026), and Punta Cana (529,115). Air cargo also showed outstanding performance. Between January and August, 159,233 metric tons were transported, a 16% increase compared to the same period in 2024 (21,696 additional tons). In August alone, the volume reached 20,958 metric tons, also reflecting 15% growth. For Tocumen International Airport’s General Manager, Jose Ruiz Blanco, these figures reaffirm the terminal’s strength as a driver of tourism and the Panamanian economy: “Tocumen is not only the main gateway to Latin America; it is also a symbol of Panama’s commitment to innovation, connectivity, and service excellence. These results reflect the trust of millions of passengers and airlines that choose us every day, consolidating our role as a world-class regional hub.” READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Metro Line 3: President Mulino Details Tunnel Progress and Promises to Complete It During His Term The President of the Republic, José Raúl Mulino, highlighted the progress in the construction of the Panama Metro as the one-year anniversary of the Panama Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) operation was marked. “Exactly one year ago, we put the Panama TBM into operation and reached the maximum depth, and now we are rising to connect Farfán with Albrook. Believe me, it has been a real feat,” Mulino stated. The President also criticized changes made to the original project, which had planned a combined bridge for vehicles and the Metro. He noted that it was ultimately split into a bridge for vehicles and a tunnel for the Metro, but “in the end, they did neither one nor the other.” Mulino emphasized the complexity and challenges overcome during the project, which aims to improve connectivity and mobility in the city. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE The Clear Channel in the Pacific: Canal Seeks Solution Amid Construction of New Ports In the Pacific side of the Panama Canal, there is a condition that acts as a restriction for ships wanting to enter or exit the ports along the shore. They cannot do so while a vessel is passing through the canal in either direction, and some ships have to wait for hours. With the arrival of a new port in the area, the Canal administration needs to find a solution. In a press conference held on Tuesday, September 16, Canal administrator Ricaurte Catín Vásquez responded to SNIP Noticias regarding this condition, known as the clear channel. “In managing Canal operations, we will assess the benefits of having a terminal owned by the Panama Canal. It is now essential that the Panama Canal, in its traffic management process, give higher priority to terminal operations,” he said. He explained that
Turning Loss into Light; Panama Business & Investors’ Day 2025; North Corridor Concession Extended until 2058.
Friday, September 12, 2025. Reflection: The Martyrdom of Charlie Kirk and America’s Awakening The news of Charlie Kirk’s death has reverberated across the nation. Known as a bold voice for conservative values, but also as a man unashamed to profess his faith in Jesus Christ, Kirk’s life and now his death have left an indelible mark. While political analysts will focus on the national divides his assassination reveals, there is a deeper story unfolding, a spiritual one. Charlie Kirk lived his life publicly, never hiding his convictions. His courage to speak openly about faith made him a lightning rod for criticism but also a beacon for countless young people searching for truth. His sudden and violent end will not only be remembered as a political tragedy, but more importantly I hope as the silencing of a Christian witness in the public square. And yet, history shows us that such silencing never truly succeeds. The Church has long known a paradox: when a believer is struck down, the message of Christ is often amplified. The early Christians said, “the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.” Charlie’s death may prove to be a catalyst, awakening those who have drifted from faith or never embraced it at all. For the agnostic, the skeptic, or the one “on the fence,” such a moment can stir new questions: What do I really believe? What is life’s purpose? Am I ready to face eternity? We are living in a time of uncertainty, division, and doubt. But moments of crisis can also become moments of clarity. Charlie Kirk’s assassination, his murder, may serve as a call for many Americans to return to the roots of faith, to reexamine not only political convictions but also the eternal truths that anchor human life. His death could move thousands, perhaps millions, to open their hearts again to Jesus. Though silenced on earth, Charlie’s voice echoes in the lives he touched and the questions his death now forces upon us all. It is possible that his martyrdom will not weaken the cause of faith in America but strengthen it. In grief, there is awakening. In tragedy, there is the chance for renewal. And in Charlie’s witness, sealed by his final breath, there is an invitation for this nation to turn back toward God. I watched his debates often, impressed primarily by his calm demeanor even more so than by his conviction to Jesus. His preparedness and trajectory kept me interested, but now after what transpired today, I find myself looking deeper into who he was, and now who I truly am as well. To some, I may come across as a tough guy, someone who’s been through my own hells and back. But have I truly been the hero of my story? Have I shown the same toughness when it comes to standing firm in my own beliefs? Sadly, not nearly as much as Charlie did. As Charlie often reminded us, God calls us to be salt and light, not to conform, but to bring change; to make positive change. If any good can come from this tragedy, let it be that we all begin, right now, to step forward in faith and commit ourselves to making that change in the world. Turning Loss into Light There are moments in life when the world seems to pause, even if only for a heartbeat. Tragedy, whether personal or collective, shakes us from routine and forces us to look deeper. We are reminded how fragile life is, how quickly anger and division can consume us, and how much healing our communities and hearts truly need. Yet in those very moments of pain, we are also given the chance to rediscover what matters most. Prudence calls us to reflect before we act, to measure our words carefully in times when anger tempts us. Temperance reminds us to find balance, to guard against extremes that only deepen wounds. Fortitude urges us to stand firm in what is right, even when it is difficult or costly. And Justice demands that we treat one another fairly, recognizing the dignity in every human being. If we let it, grief can open the door to grace. Division can give way to understanding. Silence can become a space for reflection, and reflection can lead us to act with renewed kindness and conviction. Today, I invite you to take a breath and ask: What am I sowing into the world around me? Am I leaving behind bitterness or light? Fear or hope? Am I showing colors of hatred or love? The answers to those questions matter more now than ever. We cannot control every storm, but we can choose to be shelter for others. We cannot erase hate, but we can refuse to mirror it. And we cannot undo loss, but we can honor it, by living each day with greater love, deeper balance, courage, and a commitment to fairness and truth. Brett MikkelsonDirector, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Panama Presents the Panama Business & Investors’ Day 2025, Its First Major Business Platform after Joining MERCOSUR This event represents the first major business initiative following Panama’s incorporation into MERCOSUR, making it a strategic space to strengthen commercial ties, attract investment, and position the country as a regional business hub. Minister of Commerce and Industry, Julio Moltó, led the presentation of the Panama Business & Investors’ Day 2025, an event scheduled for September 29 that marks a milestone as the first international forum organized by the Brazil–Panama Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the country since its admission as an Associated State of MERCOSUR. Over two days, PBID will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, government authorities, and leading experts from Panama, Brazil, and other countries in the region. The agenda includes conferences, panels, and presentations on key topics such as trade agreements, logistics, financial solutions, foreign direct investment, and business success stories. During his remarks, Minister Moltó highlighted Brazil’s support in Panama’s process of
Gratitude as a Compass; SINAPROC Issues Alert for Rains and Storms; MINSEG Strengthens Controls at Ports.
Friday, September 5, 2025. Gratitude as a Compass Life has a way of moving quickly. Between the demands of work, family, and the unexpected turns that appear on our path, we often find ourselves rushing forward, rarely pausing to look around. In the midst of this pace, it’s easy to become consumed by what isn’t working or what we feel is missing. That’s when we most need a compass to bring us back to center, a compass called gratitude. Gratitude is not about ignoring difficulties or pretending that everything is perfect. It’s about choosing to recognize the good that is already present, even when challenges surround us. The simple act of noticing, whether it’s the laughter of a child, a quiet conversation with someone we trust, or the comfort of a morning cup of coffee, reshapes the way we experience life. Gratitude doesn’t eliminate struggle, but it changes how we walk through it. When we allow gratitude to guide us, perspective shifts. What once felt like a burden becomes an opportunity to grow. What seemed ordinary is revealed as extraordinary. Gratitude teaches us that joy is not found in what we accumulate but in how we appreciate what we already have. It reminds us that even in the hardest moments, there are reasons, sometimes small, sometimes profound, to give thanks. This compass does more than point us toward the positive. It grounds us. It anchors us when fear or frustration pulls us off course. It keeps our hearts steady in seasons of uncertainty. And the beautiful truth is that it requires no grand gesture, only a pause, a deep breath, and the willingness to say, “This, too, is a gift.”. As you reflect on your own journey, I encourage you to adopt a simple practice: end each day by identifying three things you are grateful for. They may be small or significant, but together they become stepping stones that shape a more meaningful life. Over time, you’ll find that gratitude doesn’t just brighten your days, it redefines the direction of your life. So, when the road ahead feels unclear, remember to reach for your compass. Gratitude will always point you toward what matters most. Brett MikkelsonDirector, B.M. Investigations, Inc. TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: SINAPROC Issues Alert for Significant Rains and Storms in Panama until September 6 The National Civil Protection System (SINAPROC) has issued a weather watch for significant rains and storms that will affect the entire Panamanian territory until Saturday, September 6, 2025. The areas under the warning include: Bocas del Toro, Ngäbe Buglé, Chiriquí, Veraguas, Herrera, Los Santos, Coclé, Colón, Panamá Oeste, Panamá, Darién, Emberá-Wounaan, and Guna Yala. According to SINAPROC, atmospheric instability is due to the influence of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and low-pressure systems, which create favorable conditions for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The agency advised the population to remain alert to weather updates, avoid vulnerable areas, and follow the instructions of local authorities to prevent accidents. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Gasoline and Diesel Prices Will Increase Starting Friday The Secretariat of Energy announced the fuel prices that will take effect starting this Friday, September 5. Ninety-five octane gasoline will increase by three cents, bringing the price to 93 cents.Ninety-one octane gasoline will also rise by three cents, reaching 89 cents per liter.Meanwhile, low-sulfur diesel will increase by two cents, bringing the price to 83 cents per liter. These prices will remain in effect until 5:59 a.m. on Friday, September 19. The Secretariat of Energy explained that the reference prices are calculated based on international values of finished products (gasoline and diesel) quoted on the U.S. Gulf Coast, the country’s main supplier market. They noted that the adjustment is made every 14 days. During the current period, international quotations registered a slight upward trend. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE MINSEG Strengthens Controls at Panama’s Ports to Curb Drug Trafficking in Containers The Minister of Security (MINSEG), Frank Ábrego, announced the creation of an inter-institutional task force focused on combating illegal drug trafficking through containers at the country’s ports. “We have conducted a thorough review of the strengths and weaknesses of each institution and have managed to form a single task force directly focused on fighting drug trafficking through Panamanian ports,” Ábrego stated. MINSEG will create a team to combat drug trafficking. The official said that next Thursday a meeting will be held with the security chiefs of all ports present in Panama, with the aim of identifying common points, correcting weaknesses, and strengthening control mechanisms. Subsequently, the President of the Republic, José Raúl Mulino, will meet with port managers. One of the main challenges identified is the continuous operation of the inspection scanners operated by the National Customs Authority, which sometimes stop functioning due to a lack of trained personnel. Ábrego assured that within 15 days to a month, a definitive solution will be implemented to allow 24-hour operation. He also highlighted that the Customs Authority began several months ago a training plan for members of the National Police in the operation of scanners, which will expand coverage and strengthen security at the country’s main ports. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Panama Metro: Progress on Line 3 Tunnel and Future City Expansions The Director of Projects and Planning of the Panama Metro, Carlos Cedeño, reported that in the coming weeks, the excavation of the Line 3 tunnel, which crosses the Panama Canal, could be completed. So far, more than 1,800 meters of the tunnel have been constructed, which is part of a total 4.5-kilometer route, divided into two sections: 3 kilometers under the Panama Canal and 1.5 kilometers from the Port of Balboa to Albrook Station. Line 3 will have a maximum capacity of 30,000 passengers per hour in both directions, with the operation of 26 trains, allowing more than 100,000 people to be transported daily. Why is a tunnel being built under the Canal?Engineer Cedeño explained on ECOTV’s program En Contexto that the tunnel was conceived as an alternative after the Line 3 project was separated from
Back to Work; Brazil Joins the Panama Neutrality Treaty; Panama Ready for the National Beach and River Cleanup
Friday, August 29, 2025. Back to Work Staying at home all the time can get old pretty quick, especially for a guy used to running 3–4 meetings a day and putting out hundreds of fires a week. Sure, from home I was still solving problems, but it’s not the same as being out front, facing the mission head-on. Recovery doesn’t allow for much tackling, though. So I tested the waters, back to the office, at least part-time. And what did I learn? Dealing with people sucks. Don’t get me wrong, I like people. A lot, actually. But not when it means colliding with their schedules and their terrible time management. First off, Panama traffic. Back in the car at 0600hrs and it was horrible. The endless line of taxis creating their own “third lane,” the lack of courtesy, the near-miss accidents (some involving my car) made me want her to turn around and crawl back into bed. After dropping the kids at school (five minutes late) my Uber, my Queen, drove me to my first appointment. We got there at 0815hrs, military-style punctual, only to be told our 0830a.m. appointment was on hold because the doctor hadn’t even arrived. Worse, the receptionist announced: “He has two other patients ahead of you.” Downstairs we went for coffee and an éclair. By 0845hrs, I’d had enough. “Let’s go,” I told her. She saw the look. She knew the appointment was done. “We’ve got better things to do than sit here for something I don’t even think I need,” I snapped. And she didn’t argue. I hadn’t fought through the morning pain at 0545hrs just to let someone else waste my whole morning. Thinking foolishly that the office would salvage the day, I headed there. Before noon I’d: It wasn’t all bad, but what the bottom line here? After two months out of commission, going back to work feels overrated. At this point, staying home and embracing the art of being a “bum” sounds like a long-term strategy I could get behind. Brett MikkelsonDirector, B.M. Investigations, Inc. TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Brazil Adheres to the Panama Canal Neutrality Treaty During Mulino’s Visit The President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, announced this Thursday in Brasília, before his Panamanian counterpart José Raúl Mulino, Brazil’s accession to the Permanent Neutrality Treaty of the Panama Canal. Lula made this announcement in a statement to the press alongside Mulino, during the Panamanian president’s visit to Brazil and amid veiled criticism of the United States. “Brazil fully supports the sovereignty over the Panama Canal,” which “for more than 25 years has been administered with guarantees of neutrality and efficiency,” declared the Brazilian leader, confirming his country’s accession to the Neutrality Treaty. Although indirectly, Lula reiterated his criticism of the policies and threats of U.S. President Donald Trump, who since taking office last January has hinted that his country intends to “take back” the Panama Canal. By announcing Brazil’s accession to the Neutrality Treaty, Lula stated that Latin America is going through “a more critical moment,” in which “attempts are being made to restore old hegemonies” and “trade is being used as an instrument of coercion and blackmail.” Mulino welcomed Lula’s statement and explained that “the issue of the Canal is always something very emotional for all Panamanians.” According to the Panamanian leader, “it was a century-long struggle, until through negotiation both parties (Panama and the United States) agreed to the Neutrality Treaty.” That document has already been signed by more than 40 countries in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, and was the result of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, which in 1997 sealed the handover of the Canal to Panama. According to the Neutrality Treaty, “the Canal, as a waterway of international transit, shall be permanently neutral” and shall remain under Panamanian sovereignty, in accordance with the regime established by the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Fourth Bridge Consortium Announces Closures on the Pan-American Highway for One Month The Fourth Bridge Consortium over the Canal announced that cleaning works will be carried out at the entrances and exits of the sewer systems that cross the Pan-American Highway, specifically in the section adjacent to the project. These works will take place from August 29 to September 29, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Drivers are advised to drive with caution, obey traffic signs, and follow the instructions of personnel in the area, with the aim of ensuring everyone’s safety and maintaining smooth traffic flow. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Panama Prepares for the Great National Beach and River Cleanup Next Sunday, September 21, the national beach and river cleanup campaign will take place, an activity aimed at reducing pollution and raising awareness about the importance of protecting the country’s marine and river ecosystems. The initiative, supported by environmental organizations, community boards, municipalities, and the National Government, will be carried out simultaneously at different locations across the country. In Panama City, activities will focus on the mouth of the Matías Hernández River, near the Bird Watchpoint in Costa del Este, and in Panama Viejo. Cleanups have also been confirmed in Colón Province and other regions inland. The main goal is to sensitize the population about the need to prevent waste from ending up in rivers, streams, and ultimately the oceans, where it severely affects biodiversity and puts marine species and birds inhabiting these areas at risk. Beach and river cleanups are not new in Panama: this year marks the 34th consecutive year these campaigns have been held, mobilizing thousands of volunteers nationwide. In addition to waste collection, this edition will place special emphasis on categorizing the materials collected, so they can be reintegrated into the circular economy through recycling and reuse processes, especially plastics. For the organizers, an increasing number of Panamanians are joining this initiative, reflecting citizens’ concern for the state of the seas, rivers, and beaches. They also made a call to actively participate in this environmental activity. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Foreign Ministry Announces the Reopening
The Search for Sleep; State Revenues Grow 11.6% in 1st Half; Fuel Prices Drop in Panama.
Friday, August 22, 2025. The Search for Sleep From Henry IV, Part 2 (Act 3, Scene 1) – spoken by King Henry IVO sleep! O gentle sleep!Nature’s soft nurse, how have I frighted thee,That thou no more wilt weigh my eyelids down,And steep my senses in forgetfulness?This famous soliloquy explores the longing for rest in a troubled mind. Shakespeare likens sleep to a gentle nurse, soothing and necessary, yet frustratingly absent. Welcome to my world, and the world of so many others.Trying to sleep in a hospital is por el gusto (pointless), no matter which ward you’re in. The ICU allows for no rest at all: Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) devices spring to life just as your body begins to calm, blood pressure cuffs inflate every hour on the hour, and the soundtrack of the night is made up of screams and lamentations from fellow patients. Add to that the constant temperature checks, blood draws, and the daily ritual of a cold-water sponge bath, and you realize that in hospitals, sleep is more theory than reality.Fast forward to home, and rest still felt elusive. I battled frequent wake-ups and endless trips to the baño. The hardest part wasn’t the interruptions themselves, but the painful effort of getting in and out of bed. A new back meant new adjustments, I told myself, so I chalked it up to post-op growing pains. Still, the IS (sacroiliac) joint flared each night, making rest feel impossible.Finally, I decided to put my investigative brain to the test, no small feat under the haze of medication. First experiment: sleeping in my recliner. During the day it gave me no pain at all, so why not? The results: zero pain, but very little actual sleep. Round two: I borrowed my son Brandon’s queen-sized bed (he gamely returned to his old bunk bed). The outcome? A full night’s rest, uninterrupted, right until my alarm. Eureka.But the real test remained. I went back to “the scene of the crime”; my old bed. Within 15 minutes, I was in agony, and getting out felt nearly impossible. The verdict was clear: new back + old mattress = new problems. Time for the next phase of recovery: mattress shopping. Or, as my queen calls it with regal flair, “Shoooooooopping!”The irony is that I’d been down this road before. Even prior to surgery, I did everything I could to maximize sleep. My old mattress was chosen through a method both simple and scientific: I sampled hotel beds until I found the perfect one, then hunted it down for my own home. Now, it seems the cycle repeats — except this time, Brandon’s mattress has proven the winning formula.Of course, a mattress isn’t the only factor. Sleep, real restorative sleep, is a recipe with many ingredients. Beyond the bed itself, here are universal elements worth considering if you want to achieve the elusive perfect night’s rest: Brett MikkelsonDirector, B.M. Investigations, Inc. TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Cabinet Approves B/.5.207 Billion for the Canal and Adopts Measures on Río Indio On Tuesday, the Cabinet approved Bill No. 28-25, establishing the Panama Canal budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 at B/.5,207.2 million, covering the period from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026. The FY-2026 budget focuses on future investments, prioritizing water sustainability through the Río Indio lake project and business diversification (gas pipeline, port terminals, and logistics corridor). It also allocates resources for workforce development and well-being, management of traditional and western watersheds, and the sustainable, competitive operation of the Canal. A direct contribution to the National Treasury of B/.3,193.8 million is expected, representing a 14.5% increase (B/.404.3 million) over FY-2025. Payments to other state entities for income tax, social security, educational insurance, and employer contributions are estimated at B/.291.1 million. In the context of global challenges—climate uncertainty, technological advances, geopolitical tensions, and sustainability concerns—FY-2026 marks the start of an investment period aimed at strengthening the Canal’s business model and protecting the long-term value of this critical trade route. Following Cabinet approval, the budget will be submitted to the National Assembly as required by the Constitution and the Panama Canal Authority Organic Law. Río Indio Lake: Project of Public InterestThe Cabinet also approved Resolution No. 91-25, declaring the multipurpose reservoir project in the Río Indio watershed a project of public interest. This responds to community concerns about potential land speculation and irregular management. Two measures will protect residents’ rights: defining the project’s area of influence and its public interest status. The area of influence legally delineates which lands and communities are affected and establishes mechanisms to safeguard residents’ and landowners’ rights. Any land sales, new constructions, loans, changes in land use, or economic activities within this area will require Canal Authority approval. All state institutions are required to collaborate to ensure orderly project development and respond efficiently to community needs. The Río Indio lake aims to guarantee water supply for over 50% of the population and support regional productive activities, including Canal operations, for the next 50 years. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE New Rules for Donations: Panama City Hall Updates Manual The Panama City Hall, in collaboration with the technical team of the Comptroller General of the Republic (CGRP), has completed the standardization of the Manual of Procedures for the Receipt of Goods as Donations after several months of joint work. The process, led by the City Hall’s Internal Audit Directorate, lasted approximately six months with guidance from the Accounting Methods and Systems Directorate of the CGRP. “Our goal is to strengthen procedures in order to eliminate gaps we have faced when receiving donations,” said Isis Jurado, Director of Internal Audit at the City Hall, highlighting that the manual enhances transparency and reduces room for subjectivity. Publication and Implementation of Donations Procedures at Panama City HallThe manual will be published by the CGRP in the Official Gazette, officially coming into effect. Jurado noted that the next phase will be to train all administrative units of the City Hall to ensure proper implementation of the procedures. With this
Listen to Your Body; Panama’s Seafood Exports Grow 11.3%; Minsa Strengthens Dengue Control Operations.
Friday, August 15, 2025. Listen to Your Body — Before It Screams at You A month after my back surgery, I was healing well. Pain was easing, mobility was improving, and I had started to think the hardest part was behind me. Then one afternoon, riding shotgun while my wife drove, a dump truck cut us off in traffic. She braked hard. I instinctively did the same, except I was the passenger. That single reflex triggered a cascade of pain down my right leg. It was bad enough to send me to the ER. They gave me medication and sent me home. But the pain didn’t ease. In fact, it got worse, and then came something new: my big toe went numb, half my foot followed, and it started to feel cold. I waited five days, telling myself it was just the nerve pain. When I finally went back to the ER, my case landed in the hands of none other than “Dr. House” or at least his real-life personality double. Quick, sharp, and sarcastic, he listened to my complaints, took one look at me, and said: House: “Well, obviously this man has acute S1 radiculopathy… back pain shooting down the leg, numb big toe, half the foot asleep. That’s straight from a first-year neuro lecture. But here’s what you all missed: the foot isn’t just numb, it’s cold. That’s not nerves, that’s blood supply. Let’s check the pulses… Dorsalis pedis? Nothing. Posterior tibial? Barely a whisper. Get me an angio CT.” Minutes later, the scan told the full story: “Well, surprise, surprise you have an infrapopliteal arterial occlusion. I don’t expect you to know what that means. The tibial anterior, tibial posterior, and peroneal arteries are hanging on by filiform flow, and the plantar arch might as well be a dead end. So congratulations, you’ve managed to present us with a rare two-for-one special: a crushed S1 nerve root and acute limb ischemia from an arterial thrombus. One is cutting off the signal, the other is cutting off the blood. That’s why you’re losing both sensation and circulation. All of that and you didn’t even allow your wife to have a REAL accident, just a brake pump. Get this man into surgery, before he loses his entire leg, or dies, people!!” Two surgeries later, I kept my leg, foot and toes. But the truth is, the day my foot went cold, I should have been in the ER immediately. I could have avoided a lot of pain and risk if I had recognized that this wasn’t just “more of the same” pain from my back. I could have also avoided a lot of cell damage. My calf muscle is noticeably smaller and the whole leg is weaker that the other. I still have numbness in my big toe and my foot is still a little colder than the other due to 5 days of no oxygen. The gama of meds they have me taking should put everything back to where it was however, over the course of the next year. The Takeaway We often tell ourselves to “tough it out,” to wait and see if it gets better, to not “make a fuss.” But your body doesn’t send new, alarming symptoms as casual conversation. They’re signals which are sometimes urgent and ignoring them can turn a manageable issue into a crisis. So, if you don’t want to be schooled (and insulted) by your own version of Dr. House, listen to your body. Act early. And never assume that a new symptom is “just part of the old problem.” Brett MikkelsonDirector, B.M. Investigations, Inc. TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: ARAP Reports Panamanian Seafood Exports Grow 11.3% Panama’s seafood exports reached a value of B/.516.3 million during the first half of 2025, representing an 11.3% growth compared to the same period in 2024, according to data from the Panama Aquatic Resources Authority (ARAP). ARAP attributes the result to government policiesThe report highlights that international markets—especially in Asia and the United States—continue to show strong demand for Panamanian seafood products. This performance is attributed to government policies, as well as the implementation of improved practices in traceability and fishing transparency, factors that have strengthened the competitiveness of the export sector. A sector spokesperson emphasized the importance of ensuring that seafood exports remain free from any form of trade discrimination, stressing that although the process requires investment in logistical and technical resources, the institutional commitment is to maintain these standards and secure an annual budget for their compliance. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Panama Promotes Sustainable Shipping Routes from the IMO During the most recent session of the United Nations Security Council, President José Raúl Mulino reaffirmed Panama’s commitment to international maritime security and the protection of the global ecosystem, highlighting the country’s leading role in the International Maritime Organization (IMO). “The IMO is not just an international organization of which Panama is a member. Today, a Panamanian presides over it, and that commits us even more to a mission that is not new to us,” the president stated. In his address, Mulino underscored the relevance of the Panamanian merchant marine—one of the largest in the world—as a key player in discussions on maritime safety, the protection of seafarers, and the prevention of transnational crimes. “This issue was raised not only by Panama but by many other countries. Maritime security is a shared responsibility, and Panama is at the center of that conversation,” he affirmed. The president also stressed the need for large vessels to sail without polluting, as part of global efforts against climate change. “We cannot look at this through the narrow lens of interests. It’s about global, international prevention for the ecosystem. If Panama is one of the very few carbon-negative countries today, it’s because we are aligned with that reality. That is why we fully support the IMO’s decisions,” he concluded. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Minsa Intensifies Dengue Operations: 8,740 Cases and 14 Deaths in 2025 The Ministry of Health