Panama to Celebrate Holidays after Mourning

Panama, Nov 2 (Prensa Latina) Many Panamanians went to work on Friday deeply affected by the memory of their late loved ones, while others were overwhelmed by rising food and gas prices, but from tomorrow, they will enjoy a four-day national holiday marking separation from Colombia and flag day.

Cemeteries were full of mourners worshipping their beloved today, also marking an official tribute to the first national heroes of the country's Independence from Spain.

Also on Friday, President Martin Torrijos and his Cabinet attended a ceremony at the mausoleum of Manuel Amador, the first President of the Republic.

Local press reports recall the plight of many families when it comes to bury their dead, whether because of lack of space in public cemeteries or lack of money to pay for a plot in a private cemetery.

However, the capital streets have been decorated with the national colors, red, white and blue, anticipating the four-day off celebrations that will start on Saturday, including band parades from schools and institutions vying for people's applause.