Boquete Polyclinic Workers Protest Unpaid Settlements

A group of former construction workers who were laid off from the Boquete polyclinic project protested outside the Social Security Fund (CSS) offices in David, demanding concrete answers regarding their final payments. The project was under the responsibility of the CSS.

According to the affected workers, the construction company stated that it cannot process their final settlements because the state is delaying payments for project milestones. This has created a liquidity shortage for the company, hindering its ability to meet contractual obligations.

During the protest, CSS officials informed the workers that such grievances must be handled at the national level, as provincial offices lack decision-making authority. Edwin Vega, a spokesperson for the workers, expressed their dissatisfaction, stating they were dismissed without receiving any payment. He added that their dismissal was unjust, as their contracts were supposed to extend until the following January, which forms the core of their dispute with the company that allegedly refuses to pay.

Another affected worker, Aladino Lara, noted that they worked on the project until March 14 and have received no response since. He also alleged disparate treatment, as a group of colleagues and a foreman reportedly reached a direct agreement and received their payments, while the rest remain in limbo.

The polyclinic project, which has been ongoing for over a decade, was toured in July 2025 by the CSS director, Dino Mon. At that time, he projected completion within six to seven months, reporting 60% progress. However, the project has not been delivered and is currently stalled again.