«That's why the filter can't just be on paper, it has to be real», she expressed. Unrepeatable experiencesThe leader of the Pro-Women Movement recalled that Panama has already experienced serious episodes in childcare centers, where the lack of institutional control ended in negligence, closures, and administrative processes. «Every so often we hear that there was abuse in a center. That happens because they don't check who is hired to work there or how it is supervised», she indicated. In her opinion, the case of the CAI in Tocumen should serve to thoroughly review the comprehensive care system and not be limited to a circumstantial reaction. «We can't only act when a scandal breaks out. We need to know if that person is fit to work with children and vulnerable populations», she pointed out. She explained that children and the elderly are often easy targets for manipulation when there is no permanent supervision. «A child can be pressured, convinced, or paid to keep quiet. That is the reality. It's about reviewing conditions, treatment, food, health, emotional state, and seeing if the protection function is really being fulfilled», she said. Although the debate arises from the situation of the CAI in Tocumen under the orbit of SENNIAF, Torres emphasized that the problem is national and structural. «This is not just Tocumen. Not just anyone can be with girls who are growing up, with children, or with people with disabilities», she affirmed. For the activist, the problem is not only structural, but also human. It is how Panama cares for its children and its most fragile populations. This has to be permanent: inspections, evaluations, follow-up», she maintained. Responsibility of operators and the stateTorres emphasized that the responsibility does not fall solely on the worker on duty, but also on those who administer the centers and on the state itself. «Companies, boards of directors, and the state have to respond».
