The U.S. Embassy in Panama City has issued a security alert for the Bocas Del Toro Province due to ongoing civil unrest in the region. The Panamanian government has declared a state of emergency in an effort to restore order, following the temporary closure of Changuinola airport. This situation is impacting essential supply chains to the islands of the Bocas Del Toro Archipelago and travel may be restricted.
U.S. Government personnel are prohibited from traveling to both the mainland and islands of Bocas Del Toro until further notice. The embassy advises individuals to avoid traveling to these areas, consider sheltering in place or leaving safely if already present, avoid areas with civil unrest, monitor local media for updates, maintain a low profile, and review personal security plans.
For assistance, individuals can contact the U.S. Embassy Panama City at +507-317-5000 or via email at Panama-ACS@state.gov. Additional resources include the State Department's Consular Affairs lines at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444, as well as enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates.
Further information can be found on the embassy website and by following their U.S. Citizen Consular Information channel on WhatsApp or social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter/X.