U.S. Ambassador to Panama Kevin Marino Cabrera traveled to the Azuero region on Friday, both as part of a humanitarian mission and to observe a cultural event. At the request of Panamanian officials, Cabrera visited two locations. He participated in the U.S. Southern Command’s (SOUTHCOM) Humanitarian Assistance program, delivering medical supplies. One location was Parque Unión in Chitré, a public square, at the request of Herrera Gov. Elias Corro and National Assembly member Manuel Cohen. The other location was Pablo Franco Sayas Hospital in Las Tablas, at the request of Panama’s Ministry of Health. Cabrera also attended the Mil Polleras parade on Saturday. He delivered donations and medical supplies valued at an estimated $100,000. These supplies included equipment such as wheelchairs, canes, walkers, and crutches. More equipment included an ultrasound machine, glucose meters, blood pressure monitors, a body extraction kit, stethoscopes, and new doors for the emergency room. “On behalf of the United States, President (Donald) Trump, and SOUTHCOM, we delivered these medical donations directly to Panama’s Ministry of Health in Chitré and Las Tablas — no bloated NGOs, no middlemen,” said Cabrera. “This is President Trump’s America First Global Health Strategy in action: efficient support straight to Panamanian doctors and patients for better health security and a more prosperous future.” The event is part of a larger celebration that marks Panama’s national identity and features traditional attire and other cultural hallmarks unique to the region. The Azuero region is in the southwestern corner of Central America and has a western area along the Pacific Ocean. While the region is an attractive tourist destination, it is also noted for significant poverty.
