Date: November 28, 2012

Location: Panama, Republic of Panama

The Panamanian movement for independence from the Spanish Crown began on November 10, 1821 with the events of the First Declaration of Independence in the Villa de Los Santos by Rufina Alfaro and Segundo Villareal, which was supported in other cities like Natá, Penonomé, Ocú and Parita.

More than 15 cruise ships will dock at Colón 2000 and the port of the Panama Canal this month.

There are three major arrivals, the first by Holland America Zuiderdam, with capacity for 1,848 passengers, which will arrive in intervals on November 5, 15 and 26.

The company KLM Royal Dutch Airlines announced that a Boeing 777 will be arriving to Panama. To meet the demands for increased capacity in the market and to help consolidate the country's continued economic growth, KLM has assigned the most modern aircraft in its fleet to the Panama route. So, as of October 28, the daily flight with KLM is operated in a Boeing 777 plane.

Locals seek to attract domestic and foreign tourists by promoting the San Félix river and its attractive beaches.

The carnival committee in Las Lajas, in the district of Alanje, intends to promote the region's tourist areas: its river, beaches and swimming holes.

The National Assembly had a second debate on Bill 481, which governs incentives to promote tourism in the country.

The legislation seeks to encourage investment in new projects and activities that offer tourist lodging services outside the district of Panama and have a minimum investment of B/.250,000.

Construction on Phase 1 of the Coiba National Park Research Station will begin in mid-2013.

Rubén Berrocal, executive secretary of the National Secretariat of Science and Technology (SENACYT), announced that construction will be done in three stages, with an overall cost of $7 million dollars.

Visitors to the very successful IX Montijo Crab and Seafood Festival enjoyed the tradition, culture and folklore of the district of Montijo. This festival was founded with the intention of preserving the customs and traditions of this coastal region of the province of Veragüas.

John Geddert, the United States gymnastics coach and winner of the 2012 London Olympics, is visiting Panama.

The famous coach and a team of 30 people will be teaching a three-day clinic at the No Limits gym, combined with a weekend on the beach in western Panama.

Geddert considers that Panama's easy access makes it an ideal site for holding diverse regional events.

"You have to work hard to succeed," the coach commented.

Mega construction projects, promoted by the government and private enterprise, create jobs. More than 1,400 visitors have come to the country, signifying a 6.9% increase as of September.

Yoshihiko Noda, the Prime Minister of Japan, declared his interest in promoting greater bilateral relations, the shipping industry and international trade with Panama.