Bill 163, which reforms the Social Security Fund and the IVM, has generated mixed opinions among different sectors in Panama. Some believe it is necessary to address the longstanding issues of the health entity that have been avoided by several governments, while others think that raising the retirement age is not the most suitable solution to overcome the crisis.
Aldeano stated: "This law is not bad, because it addresses a longstanding problem that all governments have been evading; however, raising the retirement age is not the most appropriate way to resolve the crisis of this health entity." Humberto Montero, from the Independent Educators' Front, also expressed that the teaching sector will remain within the solidarity system despite their proposal not being considered in the document presented.
During the session, economist Felipe Argote presented his proposals in an extensive portfolio, suggesting a mixed formula that allows for two minimum wages to be solidarized, and from that point, the pensions to be mixed. The Minister of Health, Fernando Boyd, for his part, stated that the bill is not liked by anyone, but sacrifices are necessary to address the problem.
During the first debate on the bill, diverse opinions from different sectors were heard. Fernando Castañedas from the Association of Doctors of the Social Security Fund pointed out that the project is harmful to the country and especially to the youth. Alain Cedeño, president of the Health Committee, decided to take a recess due to the absence of key authorities during the consultations, although several voices expressing their rejection of the proposed parameters were heard.
Consultations continue in the National Assembly, with various organizations and representatives of civil society expressing their opinions and concerns about Bill 163. Alonso Rodríguez from the Hemodialysis Patients Group requested better attention for the insured, while proposals such as raising the retirement age have been rejected. Authorities have emphasized the importance of listening to all sectors before making final decisions.
