President José Raúl Mulino stated that the people deserve a peaceful Christmas without having to suffer for food. “Christmas belongs to the people, not to those who speculate,” Mulino stressed, emphasizing that the Christmas fairs are not a political show but real relief from price increases Panamanians face daily.
Mulino announced that the government will sell over 500,000 Christmas food boxes for $15 each. The National Government covers 55% of the real value, ensuring affordability. Each box contains rice, sugar, salt, pigeon peas, and a picnic ham.
The initiative aims to reach 132 sites across Panama, including 28 new locations, islands, and the Emberá-Wounaan region, targeting areas where affordable food is scarce. This effort is designed to provide economic relief to thousands of families by the end of the year.
The president also joked about trying the high-quality ham from Veraguas, Azuero, or Chiriquí. His instructions were clear: speed, transparency, and fair distribution without abuse or favoritism. “The people won’t pay more than half,” he insisted.
