Due to the rising gasoline prices, and the fact that they are the highest they’ve been in the past five years, carriers, drivers, and truck drivers are holding a national blockade on the streets impacting both circulation and freight activities

Imitation cheese products are available, particularly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives, cheaper than actual cheeses and with less nutritive value; President Mulino underlines the need of clear, explicit labels to protect consumers

A tsunami alert has remained in effect in Panama following a strong Pacific earthquake, with authorities monitoring expected wave heights along the Pacific coast during the morning hours

Panamá has intensified diplomatic and regulatory efforts to improve its international standing, as it has exited the EU's money laundering grey list but still seeks removal from tax and fisheries-related discriminatory lists

Panama has regained control of Bocas del Toro after violent protests over pension reforms led by banana workers resulted in one death, over 300 arrests, and major unrest, with officials linking the chaos to gang involvement and political agitation