As part of these actions, a meeting was held with representatives of travel agencies, and a strategic alliance was established with the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP), the Panamanian Football Federation (Fepafut), and the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (MICI), in order to guide citizens and prevent possible scams.
One of the main risks identified is the proliferation of fictitious agencies that offer travel packages through social media and the internet, without having an operation permit, valid insurance, or registration with the Panama Tourism Authority. It was also warned that there are agencies that, even if registered, have expired documents or fail to meet legal requirements.
«Acodeco seeks for consumers to acquire tourist packages only with formal agencies that have a valid operation permit, an established commercial premises, and a clear contact point, so that the institution can act and guarantee their rights in case of any anomaly,» indicated the administrator.
Although no formal complaints have been received so far regarding packages for the World Cup, Acodeco recalled that offers are just beginning to circulate and urged the population to act with caution, especially before attractive promotions with installment payments or long-term contracts.
The entity recommended that consumers verify that agencies are included in the list available on the Acodeco website, as well as in the records of the Panama Tourism Authority, check that they have a physical location, identify the legal representative, and review references, comments, and backgrounds before making any payment.
Similarly, Acodeco reiterated that consumers can go to the institution through its offices, telephone lines, and social networks to verify contracts and confirm the legality of agencies before finalizing a purchase.
Finally, the entity emphasized that although the consumer has the final say, Acodeco is committed to guaranteeing their rights and providing timely support in case of any irregularity related to the purchase of tourist packages.
