Veraguas province suffers heavy damage from Panama earthquakes

A series of earthquakes in Panama has caused significant structural damage across the Veraguas province, impacting both residential areas and historical landmarks. In the district of Soná, the San Isidro Labrador church, a colonial structure dating back to 1878, was completely destroyed and is slated for demolition. The Basilica Menor San Miguel Arcangel de Atalaya also suffered a total collapse of its tower. Panama’s Minister of Culture, María Eugenia Herrera, has noted that efforts are underway to rescue architectural pieces and religious imagery to preserve the region's cultural heritage.

In Santiago, Mayor Eric Jaén reported that 61 homes have been destroyed or require reconstruction, with 224 more pending assessment. The seismic activity has also affected commercial infrastructure on Avenida Central, including pharmacies, supermarkets, and a casino. Key civic buildings, such as the Santiago Cathedral and the municipal palace, have sustained damage. Local authorities are coordinating with the National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc) and the Ministry of Housing and Territorial Planning (Miviot) to evaluate building safety and provide assistance to the approximately 1,470 people who have reported damages.