Minister of Labor and Labor Development, Jackeline Muñoz, assured that 100% of employer replacements in the ports of Balboa and Cristóbal have been completed. Finally, she stated that she has the full backing of President José Raúl Mulino to implement a more robust port regulation that prevents the repetition of these abuses in Panama's logistics system. This measure comes after the contract with Panama Ports Company (PPC) was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court of Justice. "Today I can say that they are complete." "They were marked with numbers like prisoners" Muñoz recounted alarming scenes: employees eating at tables covered in soot from heavy machinery, a single microwave for 300 people, and most seriously, workers identified with numbers instead of names. "There is labor stability and the operation is running," affirmed the minister. Sinaproc issues warning for waves in the Caribbean March 01, 2026 Council members demand the timely use of FECE in schools in West Panama March 01, 2026 New regulation for the port sector Muñoz made it clear that the government's current priority is the well-being of the worker. The head of the labor portfolio described a scenario of labor exploitation: unfair wages, temporary contracts renewed every six months to avoid seniority, and deplorable hygiene conditions. "That can never happen again in this country," reiterated the minister when questioning the lack of fundamental rights. "I am indignant," stated Muñoz on the Cara a Cara program. "They seemed like prisoners," she fumed. The minister also denounced that in past administrations, entry for labor inspections was prevented. This week, the replacements will be formalized legally to ensure that no port worker is left unprotected. Abuse allegations and "inhumane conditions" The most critical point of her statements arose when she revealed the situation that, according to her complaint, employees faced for years. "Now I understand the terror they had of speaking," she added, mentioning that she receives daily reports of irregularities, especially in the province of Colón. You may be interested School year 2026 with setbacks: 13 schools do not open March 01, 2026 Sudden stop: Third Chamber dismisses lawsuit over Isla Escudo de Veraguas March 01, 2026 Panama invites 12 countries to adhere to the Canal Neutrality Treaty March 01, 2026 Rough sea! She explained that Mitradel has maintained a constant presence in both facilities to supervise that the process is strictly followed. She reported that subcontractors will have a 90-day period to negotiate new conditions.
