Many migrants, after their attempt to reach the United States was thwarted by the immigration restrictions imposed by President Donald Trump, are now resorting to "word of mouth" and social media to find new routes that allow them to continue their journey back to South America.
In Panama, some migrants have been guided by information on TikTok and recommendations from word of mouth to the coastal area of Palenque, a fishing village in the Caribbean province of Colón. From there, boat trips have been organized heading to the border with Colombia. This new alternative seeks to avoid the dangers of traveling in smaller vessels, especially following a tragic shipwreck the previous week. Panamanian authorities have implemented this method to transport about 30 people in boats with outboard motors and supplied with additional fuel.
One of the migrants, Oscarli Pineda, mentioned that she learned about this route through "word of mouth" and comments on social media from other migrants who had already used it. Pineda recounted her journey from Tapachula, Mexico, to Panama, where she now opts for the maritime route in the Caribbean instead of crossing the dangerous Darién jungle. She emphasized the information shared among migrants, similar to what happened in the jungle while navigating the way back.
Despite acknowledging the risks of this new maritime route, Pineda stressed that it is an option compared to the dangerous jungle. She added that it is an expensive method, but they prefer to avoid the exhaustion of walking. Other migrants have also arrived in Panama by following a route through several Central American countries.
In the locality of Palenque, the arrival of migrants is seen as an economic opportunity. The mayor of Santa Isabel, Ameth Mesa, noted that it is the first time that such a migratory flow has been experienced in the area, benefiting the community. This situation is expected to attract international attention to the region due to its tourism potential.
As more than 2,000 people have entered Panama from the border with Costa Rica in a migratory flow returning south, the number of people continuing their journey to the United States is decreasing, according to Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino.
