Transport workers called on the authorities and contracting companies to establish a dialogue that allows for equitable participation, and warned that they will continue their pressure tactics if they are not heard. A group of dump truck and truck owners from the provinces of Herrera and Los Santos held a peaceful protest this Thursday with a partial road closure at the San Luis intersection in Los Santos. They stated that local labor has also been sidelined, as contractors “bring in staff from outside,” reducing job opportunities for residents of the Azuero region. “Our trucks have been displaced,” said Rigoberto Escobar, leader of the freight transporters. They stated that they have exhausted all attempts to communicate with authorities and contractors, without obtaining a favorable response that would allow them to work in the area where the projects are being carried out. For his part, Agapito Domínguez, a member of the group, explained that they have formally organized themselves into an association with the goal of operating under clear rules and in unity, seeking to give priority to the local community in the projects that are developed in the area. “We need support.” Those affected pointed out that this situation directly impacts their family economy, as many have financial commitments and depend exclusively on the transport of materials to survive. “It’s our way of life.”
