Event(s): Ongoing demonstrations over a mining contract are leading to road closures today (Sunday, October 22), and tomorrow (Monday, October 23).
Currently, protests and road closures are occurring in Los Andes, San Miguelito, Avenue Transistmica, and the Cinta Costera. Tomorrow, protests and road closures are expected to start at 6am and will last all day, blocking major thoroughfares throughout the city and suburbs, to include Corredor Norte and Corredor Sur. The Ministry of Education has called for the suspension of in-person classes for Monday, October 23. Telework is authorized for most U.S. Embassy employees, though limited consular staff will continue work from the Embassy.
While most demonstrations are non-violent, the Panamanian National Police have used tear gas and/or riot control munitions in response to demonstrations, particularly when roadways are blocked, or aggression is used against the police.The consular section strongly recommends that all applicants with routine appointments on Monday, October 23, reschedule their appointments by contacting the appropriate office. The consular section further recommends that U.S. citizens in Panama continue to monitor the U.S. Embassy website, as well as their emails for further updates.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid demonstrations.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Register for STEP (link below) and refer to our website for the latest alerts and messages for U.S. citizens.
For assistance:
U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama
+507 317-5000
Panama-ACS@state.gov
https://pa.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs
+1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444
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