The Chinese Association highlighted the historical legacy of the Chinese ethnic group in Panama. During an event at Mirador de las Américas Park, community leaders honored the sacrifice of the workers who arrived on the isthmus in 1854 aboard the Sea Witch. Alex Gao indicated that the Association continues to work to ensure that the history of courage and success of the first ancestors is recognized by future generations as an essential component of Panamanian progress. About the Chinese Association of Panama: It is the governing body that promotes the well-being and preservation of the traditions of the community. Chen Barría highlighted that the community helped build the two great works that define the national history: the Railroad and the Panama Canal. According to the author, in every rail that unites the Pacific with the Atlantic, the sweat and work of the countrymen who contributed to the country's development are present. For his part, Jaime Chung, representative of the Panamanian Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industries, emphasized that the community's roots in the territory are even prior to the republican era. Chung pointed out that the contribution made to the country is enormous and reaffirmed the identity of those born in the territory as Panamanians of Chinese descent, recognizing that their history is inseparable from the formation of the nation. A Legacy under the protection of Law 15 of 2004. The event reaffirmed that the celebration of March 30, backed by Law 15 of 2004, is a recognition of the economic and cultural engine that this population represents today. The ceremony, led by Alex Gao, president of the association, together with the leaders of all Chinese organizations in the country, focused on honoring the memory of the anonymous heroes who laid the foundations for the nation's modern development. Historical Milestone of Arrival in 1854. The commemoration evokes the milestone of March 30, 1854, the date on which the brigantine Sea Witch docked on Panamanian shores with 705 workers destined for the construction of the trans-isthmian railroad. This initial effort, marked by sacrifice and an unwavering will to progress, has allowed the community to be rooted in the country's identity, contributing values of discipline, effort, and family respect. The Human Cost and the Vision of José Chen Barría. During the official ceremony and floral tribute at Mirador de las Américas Park, José Chen Barría, former Comptroller General of the Republic, gave a speech on the intangible legacy of this migration. Since its founding 143 years ago, it has worked in collaboration with the authorities and different sectors to strengthen social and economic growth under values of respect and mutual cooperation.
