Nov 3rd Activities with President Mulino.
The President of the Republic started the morning of traditional celebrations for Nov 3rd, the 123rd anniversary of Panama’s separation from Colombia. The official events were being held under an austerity protocol, in solidarity with the communities affected by the earthquake of October 9th. Traditionally, official duties begin at midnight at the presidential palace (Palacio de las Garzas) with dianas, patriotic musical salutes played by the fire department and security forces. However, President José Raúl Mulino explicitly canceled the palace reveilles for this year. The President called for an atmosphere of reflection, respect, and austerity rather than heavy festivities. This adjustment was made in deep solidarity with the thousands of families in the interior provinces affected by the severe earthquake on October 9.
President Mulino raised the National Flag, at the Palace of Las Garzas, followed by the National Anthem. The president then presented the flag to businessman Ricardo Gago Salineros, the designated flag bearer for the November 3 celebrations, recognized for his civic work in conserving Casco Antiguo’s historical heritage.
The president and the state ministers moved to the Santa María la Antigua Cathedral Basilica for the traditional Te Deum in the old quarter of Panama City, (The Te Deum is an ancient Christian Latin Hymn of praise and thanksgiving) led by Archbishop of Panama, José Domingo Ulloa. This traditional activity brings together the country’s authorities each year to commemorate this important date in national history. Before the mass, President Mulino assured that they would deliver homes for the families affected by the October 9 earthquake and also spoke about the commemoration of the 123rd anniversary of Panama’s separation from Colombia. “We have a Panama for all Panamanians.”
Following these events, the patriotic parades began. Parades all across the country will be enjoyed for the next 3 days.
