Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino has described Friday’s powerful earthquake in the country as a “major disaster.” The quake, felt across Panama and into neighboring countries, caused significant damage and prompted immediate response efforts. Preliminary reports indicate structural damage to buildings and infrastructure in several provinces, including Panama Province. President Mulino has mobilized emergency services and declared a state of emergency to facilitate rescue operations and aid distribution. Authorities are currently assessing the full extent of the damage and potential casualties, focusing on areas near the epicentre. The tremor has raised concerns about potential aftershocks and landslides, complicating relief efforts in the mountainous regions of Panama. International assistance is being considered as Panama begins to address the widespread impact of the earthquake.