Cepanim Payments Advance in Panama; Finance Ministry Projects 1,900 Daily Attendees

Panama City is experiencing a significant influx of beneficiaries collecting their "Certificados de Pago Negociable por Interés por Mora" (Cepanim) during the second day of the payment period. Hundreds, including many elderly individuals and those with reduced mobility, have been visiting the designated center at the Megapolis Outlet on Avenida Balboa.

The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) is conducting a large-scale operation across the country, projecting to assist approximately 1,900 individuals daily in Panama City alone. This disbursement is expected to inject roughly $250 million into the economy, benefiting an estimated 420,000 to 450,000 citizens nationwide.

Carmen Jaén, the general coordinator for Cepadem and Cepanim, stressed the importance of beneficiaries respecting their assigned appointment times to avoid unnecessary crowds and ensure a smooth process. "I urge beneficiaries to please comply with their schedule. If you are scheduled for 8:00 a.m., arrive at that time to avoid these crowds, because many people arrive late for their appointment and it affects the next hour's schedule at 9:00 or 10:00 a.m.," she warned.

Jaén also addressed those still awaiting notification, clarifying that this phase primarily serves living beneficiaries who have received an email or verified their appointment on the official MEF platform. For those whose status remains "pending," she asked for patience, assuring them that certificates are being printed gradually and appointments are being scheduled in stages. Payments for residents in other provinces are set to begin next week.

Initial feedback from attendees has been positive, with many noting the efficiency of the appointment system, orderly queues, and priority service for individuals with special needs.