The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) participated in the launch of Operation Guardians 2026, Phase 1, led by the National Civil Protection System (SINAPROC), as part of an inter-institutional effort for risk prevention and the protection of life in areas of high tourist traffic during the dry season.
At the press conference, Captain Alexis Peña, administrator of Puerto Panamá, announced that the AMP will carry out a national security operation during the Carnival days, deploying more than 100 inspectors in authorized ports nationwide to verify compliance with security regulations before departure, in collaboration with other security agencies.
Captain Peña reiterated the importance of using authorized docks and complying with maritime safety measures, such as:
– Life jackets for all occupants
– Communication equipment in good condition
– Signaling flares
– Portable ABC type fire extinguishers (minimum 4 kg)
– Outboard motors in optimal condition
– Crew trained in navigation safety
He also called on captains and boat operators not to drive while intoxicated: "Crews found in this state will be subject to penalties," he warned.
In 2025, during the Carnival Operation, 85,607 passengers were transported on 8,897 trips by sea.
The maritime security operation will focus especially on areas of the country with a higher volume of domestic and foreign tourists, including the province of Bocas del Toro; Chiriquí, particularly the Pedregal sector; Los Santos, in the Pedasí area; Veraguas, in Santa Catalina; Colón, both on the Costa Arriba and Costa Abajo; Panamá, with emphasis on Puerto Panamá–Taboga; and the province of Darién.
The AMP invites the public to stay informed through its official channels and social media, and urges captains, passengers, and operators to cooperate and comply with the instructions of the authorities to ensure a safe journey.
