Venezuelans in Panama honor earthquake victims with symbolic tribute

In Panama City, a group of Venezuelans and local residents gathered to hold a symbolic ceremony honoring those lost in the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24. Dozens of migrants, dressed in white, peacefully assembled and unfurled a large banner with the message "Levántate, Venezuela."

The event provided a space for collective mourning and offered a gesture of international solidarity and symbolic support to families impacted by the disaster. The gathering underscored the strong connection and empathy felt by the Venezuelan diaspora for their homeland during this difficult time.

Official reports indicate that the twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, have claimed over 5,500 lives and injured 16,740 people. Approximately 17,907 individuals lost their homes, with 856 buildings affected and 190 collapsing. Since the initial tremors on June 24, nearly 1,500 aftershocks have been recorded.

Adding to the tragedy, an NGO reported that at least 1,405 minors have been affected. Of these, 494 are listed as deceased or missing, representing over 35% of the total child casualties. The youngest victims, aged 0-11, constitute the largest group of affected children, highlighting the profound impact of the earthquakes on Venezuela's youth.