Panama earthquake damages churches, historic homes
The magnitude 7.6 quake, centered near Tonosí, left 27 injured and damage to 426 homes, according to Infobae.
The earthquake in Panama on Friday, October 9, 2026, magnitude 7.6, left damage to homes, churches, and historic buildings, according to Infobae. The epicenter was in the Pacific Ocean, near Tonosí.
It occurred at 12:56 local time. Tsunami risk protocols were activated along the Pacific coast and emergency crews were mobilized. The National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc) activated the national Emergency Operations Center and provincial offices.
Reported magnitudes varied: the first report said 7.6, and Sinaproc described the Azuero quake as magnitude 7.2.
«Preliminary information does harm when it is shared as certainty.»
René García, a Sinaproc spokesperson, said most reports came from the Azuero Peninsula and the central provinces. "We urge the population to remain calm," he said, adding that his staff is out inspecting and responding to reports.
Churches and historic heritage damaged
The Church of San Atanasio, a colonial-style Catholic temple in La Villa de Los Santos, founded in 1569, will be inspected to assess the extent of the damage.
The Museum of Nationality, or Casa del Cabildo, suffered damage to its roof and steps. It was inaugurated on November 10, 1974, and is linked to the session of Panama's first cry of independence.
There are also reports of damage to the San Juan Bautista Cathedral and historic hotels in Penonomé, capital of Coclé, founded in 1581. In Soná, Veraguas province, the Mayor Alberto Martinelli fire station collapsed.
In Playa Venao, images show damage to the El Sitio hostel, where neighbors mentioned the possibility of people trapped. That information remains unconfirmed officially.
Aftershocks and families out of their homes
At least 161 aftershocks have been felt in Azuero and nearby areas. Many families are sleeping outside their homes for fear of new tremors, while homes, schools, and hospitals are being inspected.
Authorities count 27 people injured, 419 schools with damage, and impacts on homes and health services. The 911 emergency line received 8,630 calls.
Provisional counts speak of 2,130 people affected, 426 homes damaged, and nine bridges damaged. The Ministry of Economy and Finance stated that there is budget available to respond. The country suspended the national drill and the storm alert continues in the affected areas.
Funds approved and the information still missing
President Mulino toured Los Santos and Tonosí to see the damage. He ruled out that the country will stop and confirmed that the Cabinet released resources for health, roads, and bridges. Technical inspections that will determine which buildings can remain standing are still pending.
"God is our refuge and strength" (Psalm 46:1, ESV). That refuge does not exempt us from the quake, but it orders the response: pray for the injured and for those who lost their homes, and give through verified channels, such as your local church.
One last thing: don't forward figures that no one has confirmed. Preliminary information does harm when it is shared as certainty. Do you have family or friends in Azuero? Write to them today and pray with them.
