Residents and merchants of Taboga met with the Ombudsman's Office to address the controversial increase in maritime transport fares to the island. This Friday, November 14, the Ombudsman of Panama, Eduardo Leblanc González, traveled to Taboga to discuss the recent fare hike and the discrepancies between service providers. The island is only 20 km from the capital and is easily accessible by ferry from the Amador Causeway, a journey of approximately 30 minutes. The Ombudsman called for opening the market to new operators for Taboga, as fare increases are causing tensions. "This type of measure is already applied in other countries, and Panama can adopt it," he explained. The Ombudsman also indicated that his office has held talks with the Consumer Protection and Competition Authority (Acodeco) to analyze possible impacts on free competition and review the reasons behind the reported increases. "That is why we propose that the Council evaluate an identification mechanism for Taboga residents that would allow them to access differentiated rates in accordance with what has been approved," he stated. During the meeting, Leblanc insisted that opening up to new operators is key to generating more affordable prices. The decision comes amid a climate of tension between residents and maritime companies following the increase in the cost of passage: from $20 to $24 for residents and $30 for tourists, a measure that provoked recent protests at the port. Representatives of the residents have already met with other entities, such as the Panama Tourism Authority, to express their opposition to the increase. However, an agreement on this issue has not yet been reached. Taboga, known as the Island of Flowers, is a volcanic island near Panama City, famous for its tropical vegetation, tranquil beaches, and historical charm. On November 7, operators Taboga Express Fast Ferry and Barcos Calypso announced a temporary suspension of their services to the island, citing a lack of security guarantees at the dock where the vessels moor. "It is essential to promote free competition so that users have access to fair prices."
