Security Plan in the Panama City Carnival

Approximately, 11,000 officers from various entities will be deployed nationwide during the four-day city carnival in order to ensure the safety of those participating in this event.

The announcement was made yesterday during the first meeting concerning the security operation, held between representatives of institutions such as the National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc), Authority of Land Transit and Transportation (ATTT), Social Security Depository (CSS), National Aero-naval Service (SENAN), Fire Department, and Unified Emergency Management 911.

In the same vein, yesterday morning, the Minister of Tourism, Solomon Shamah; the Mayor of the Capital District; Roxana Mendez; and the Metropolitan Health Director, Jorge Hassan, conducted an inspection in Cinta Costera, location of the Carnival events, to determine where the stages, Culecos, and family/children area will be placed as well as what the security plan would be.

The route will be the same as last year, from the Fish Market to the vicinity of Urraca Pak.

Shamah explained that for the safety of Carnival City, the number of people who attend this activity will determine the strategy to be implemented.

In regard to the food handling, Hassan said that "anyone who wants to opt for a stationary food service facility must obtain a white and a green ID card to ensure food health and handling.” He also said that the Food Handling School will have a window for people to process these permits in late January.

TOURISMO

Regarding the number of tourists expected to participate in this year's Carnival, Shamah said that 5 percent of attendees were foreigners in 2011. However, that percentage is expected to increase to 8%.

He also noted that last year the international tourism press, travel agencies, and wholesalers, all attended the city carnival, which resulted in tourist packages being offered for 2012.

In addition, registrations will be open for people who want to have their kiosks; they will be able to register from January 25^th through 27^th at the Convention Center facilities.

ATLAPA

The Minister said that the Panama City carnival is supported by the City Hall of Panama, and negotiations are being held with various beer and soda companies to sponsor it as well. As last year, the event will feature the traditional Culecos, main stage for big performances, and stage of remembrance.

The tourism Minister explained that this year will be very similar to 2011. Therefore, there will be a range of national artists, Culecos, parades, and floats. The Executive approved $2.5 million to carry out this year’s Panama City Carnival.