Large Scale Protests in Panama City This Week

The U.S. Embassy in Panama City alerts U.S. citizens that large-scale protests may take place in Panama City, Panama, from July 12 to July 13.  These protests may become violent in some instances. Following violent civil disturbances in Changuinola, Bocas del Toro Province, on July 9 and July 10, some labor leaders and others have called for protest marches on July12 and a General Strike on July 13 throughout the country (beginning just after midnight on July 12).  Transportation may be disrupted, schools and other establishments may be closed and many basic services may be affected.  The airport in Changuinola is still closed. The Embassy cautions its employees and all U.S. citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during this week.  All should exercise heightened security awareness and avoid crowds and any areas where there are demonstrations or where confrontations could occur.  During previous periods of unrest, there have been isolated incidents where disgruntled construction workers threw bricks and other objects from structures under construction.  Therefore, special caution is urged when transiting through urban areas or when driving near any high buildings.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department?s Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, including the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, can be found.

Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

For updated information on the security situation in Panama, please contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy at 207-7030. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is located in Clayton, Building 783, in the Clayton section of Panama. The Consular Section fax is 207-7303.   The Embassy web site is http://panama.usembassy.gov/ and e-mails should be addressed to Panama-ACS@state.gov.  After hours and emergency phone number:  207-7000 or 207-7200.