The trash collection in San Miguelito has become a point of intense conflict between Comptroller Anel 'Bolo' Flores and Mayor Irma Hernández. Tension escalated after the Cabinet Council approved a resolution ordering the Urban and Domestic Waste Authority (AAUD) to take over waste collection due to the risk of a health crisis. Mayor Hernández stated at a press conference that she learned of the decision when it was officially announced by Health Minister Fernando Boyd and AAUD Director Ovil Moreno. She also mentioned that Comptroller Flores contacted her in early December to arrange a meeting with the owner of Revisalud, the company that provides trash collection services until January 18, when its contract expires. Flores confirmed in NOTICIAS 180 MINUTOS that he did contact Hernández to facilitate a meeting with Revisalud's owner but clarified there was no pressure. The comptroller explained he only 'bridged the gap' to discuss the contract's conclusion. And the fight began. Comptroller Flores stated that since the tender was launched, Revisalud has filed appeals and requested a six-month extension. He also strongly criticized AAUD, fearing it lacks the operational capacity to handle the crisis in the district. For now, the trash remains on the streets. He claimed it was a courtesy gesture to a company that has operated in Panama for 14 years and that he would do the same for any company. However, the tone sharpened when discussing the numbers. Flores questioned why the municipality had formalized contracts worth $3.8 million while the tender was still open, a sum he says is intended to be paid by the central government, while revenues would go to the mayor's office. He added it's impossible to receive nearly $4 million in six months without assuming the expenses. He also claimed that the contracts for the two companies scheduled to start operating on January 19 had not reached the Comptroller's Office when the Cabinet meeting began and that he learned of their submission almost at 10:00 p.m. For Flores, this is either incompetence or bad faith, and he added he will not sign under pressure or using the argument of a health crisis. 'Not with this comptroller,' he concluded. He questioned whether AAUD will truly be ready to take over collection when the key date is just days away. Hernández said she had a scheduled meeting with AAUD but learned the night before that the government had decided to take over the service, which, she claims, involves using municipal funds. She did not rule out hidden interests behind the situation. She also labeled him incompetent and acting like a 'spoiled child.' The response was not long in coming. Comptroller Flores stated that the mayor agreed to meet and later told him the encounter was positive. He also asserted that Revisalud is not participating and will not participate in the current tender and that the company will leave the country. 'I have no interest,' Flores insisted.
