In the full session of deputies on Tuesday, the financial solidity of the Social Security Fund, retirement age, and administrative aspects were discussed in depth. It is highlighted that 34 parliamentarians intervened in two days, with five more remaining to complete the two rounds of the first block under discussion. Veteran politician Benicio Robinson pointed out that the 'flavor of this project' lies in the second and third rounds.
Several deputies expressed their concern about the delay in the start of the session and the possible prolongation of it. On Tuesday, the debate in favor and against bill 163 lasted for 11 hours, keeping Panamanian citizens in suspense. Deputy Alexandra Brenes mentioned the complexity of delinquency with the phrase 'wherever you squeeze, pus comes out,' alluding to the pending debts to the institution.
Reports presented during the session showed that more than 4,000 legal cases related to delinquency are being handled by the legal advice of the CSS in various provinces. Social Security authorities informed about the defense being carried out by 120 lawyers and legal assistants nationwide to support the administrative aspects in the session.
Marcos Jones, Director of Medical Benefits, communicated that, on average, there are 240 resident doctors in each block, totaling more than 1,200 residents over five years. The social institution manages over 7 billion in salaries and benefits. Carlos 'Tito' Afú, at 75 years of age and with 11 years of retirement, emphasized the importance of approving the project to ensure pensions and make the system sustainable over time.
Regarding the Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic, it was mentioned that it reviews the financial statements of the CSS but has not granted a certification due to detected anomalies. The director of the CSS, Dino Mon, explained that around 1.8 billion dollars are being mobilized across program accounts to maintain a positive flow, which has generated situations affecting proper functioning.
During the debate, proposals for amendments to the first block of Governance and Administration were presented, and consultations with the directors of the CSS, Ministries of Health, and Economy and Finance intensified. The development of the second and third debates is expected to be equally intense and relevant for the future of social security in Panama.
