The Ministry of Social Development (Mides) in 2025 presented its annual report, showing a budget increase from $266.9 million to $294.9 million, with a final execution of $281.7 million. According to the ministry, $274.2 million was paid out, benefiting 186,812 people across the country. A large portion of these funds was allocated to social assistance programs reaching thousands of families nationwide. Minister Beatriz Carles presented the institutional report before the Commission on Labor, Health, and Social Development, detailing how resources and programs for the most vulnerable populations were managed. The minister explained that Mides's management has been based on four strategic pillars: the well-being and dignity of the population, social inclusion, the protection of children and families, and institutional strengthening to improve public services. One of the key advances mentioned was the creation of the country's first Public Policy for Social Development, built with specialists and consultations in different regions. Programs such as 'Contigo Creciendo' are being piloted in Chorrera and the Emberá Wounaan region, alongside initiatives like 'Crianza Responsable' and 'Amorosa', as well as care for early childhood. During the presentation, new social projects starting in the coming years were announced. Progress was also reported on the National Care System, aimed at dependent persons, especially the elderly, with over 60 trained technicians and alliances with Inadeh to train caregivers. On the issue of childhood, the ministry maintains 95 CAIPI (childcare centers) in operation, attending to 2,456 children, in addition to the reopening of the 'Rayito de Luz' CAIPI in Ngäbe Buglé. For the elderly, Mides reported care for 89 residents in care homes, along with projects to expand infrastructure in these centers. One of the largest expenditures was made through conditional transfer programs. The ministry also advanced in updating the National Beneficiaries Registry, achieving an 87% update rate through the Unique Form for Social Protection (FUPS). In terms of emotional support, the 147 Helpline has received over 19,000 calls since its relaunch in 2024 and now also handles inquiries via WhatsApp. The report also included support for 86 social projects financed by Onass, impacting 25,000 people, as well as educational initiatives where 629 students were benefited by the 'Padrino Empresario' program and 949 volunteers received training. Finally, COAI reported direct attention to over 23,000 people in various provinces, as part of the social assistance services the institution provides in the country.
