As part of the strategy to organize the Panamanian maritime sector and guarantee navigation safety standards, 17,727 people have benefited from the National Waters License Issuance Tour program.
Since July 1, 2024, the program—carried out by the General Directorate of Seafarers (DGGM) of the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP)—has reached various fishing and tourist areas of the country with complete success, issuing 7,521 national waters licenses, which include sailor, 2nd class boat operator, and 2nd class fishing skipper.
Likewise, the DGGM has conducted 10,206 training sessions, including survival techniques, maritime safety, first aid, fire prevention and fighting, nautical nomenclature, and biosafety protocols. All of these training sessions are requirements for obtaining a license.
The strategy has allowed for institutional presence in areas where access to maritime services has historically been limited. This week, the DGGM technical team is touring Palmas Bellas, Río Indio, and Miguel de la Borda, in the province of Colón (Costa Abajo), and will conclude the first half of the year in Veraguas, with scheduled visits to:
- Casita de Las Tortugas Beach (Malena): June 23
- Puerto Soná, Fairgrounds: June 24
- Banco Beach Pier (Arrimadero): June 25
- Rancho Montijos Bay (Puerto Mutis): June 26:
The program has the valuable support of community organizations and the National Aeronaval Service (SENAN), through its Vigilant Fishermen initiative , which acts as a bridge between the AMP and island communities.
