Following the Earthquake, Several Heritage Sites Remain under Safety Inspections.

Yamileth Stanziola, National Director of Special Projects at MiCultura, (The Ministry of Culture) reported that immediately after the earthquake,  technical engineering and architecture teams have been conducting inspections in temples, museums, libraries, historical buildings, educational and cultural centers, with the purpose of determining the damage and establishing the necessary measures for repairs. Thirty-eight sites were evaluated during the first week after the earthquake through the use of field surveys, photographic records and drone flights, which allow for the inspection of roofs, facades and towers.

Of the total sites evaluated, 14 remain closed, 20 have restricted use, and 4 have minor damage or show no visible damage. Additionally, seven areas remain under technical evaluation in Veraguas, Los Santos and Herrera. As part of the response, MiCultura is coordinating security measures that include the closure of buildings, barricading vulnerable areas, and the stabilization of impacted structures. Currently, work is being carried out at 14 locations, with companies that are working to stabilize and secure the risk zones. The affected properties are in Coclé, Veraguas, Los Santos, Herrera, Panama and Panama West. The actions also include the protection of religious images, altarpieces, collections and archives, as well as the controlled removal of loose tiles, ceilings and ornaments that could represent a danger to people.