November 28, 2025, La Chorrera — To celebrate the 204th anniversary of Panama's independence from Spain, the district of La Chorrera held a civic parade that brought together 86 student bands from various provinces in an atmosphere filled with identity and respect for history.
At the start of the parade, a tense moment occurred between a group of teachers, members of the SUNTRAC union, and units of the National Police, due to disagreements over the permits granted by the Ministry of Education (MEDUCA) for their participation.
In total, 26 independent bands will parade on November 29.
The municipal council designated businessman Juan Arias Strunzy as the flag bearer, and the official speaker as the General Secretary of the Meritorious Fire Corps of the Republic of Panama, José Tomás Batista.
In his speech, Batista highlighted the importance of the independence movement and the efforts of teachers and community groups that keep this Chorrera tradition alive.
In turn, Mayor Eloy Chong focused his message on the value of those who, despite adversity, defended freedom and bet on a country capable of deciding its own destiny.
This year, the Board of Festivities and National Anniversaries decided to separate the events: the student band parade took place on November 28, and the turn of the independent bands will be on the 29th, due to the high number of delegations.
As explained by Aquiles Acevedo, president of the board, this measure ensures the necessary time for all groups to present without setbacks.
