Panama, October 16, 2025 - The National Assembly's Plenary adopted, at its third debate, Bill No. 267, creating the Civil Society of the City of the Arts, setting up a legal framework that guarantees sustainability, autonomy and transparency in the administration of one of the most iconic cultural spaces in the country. 56 votes for this decision mark an historic milestone in strengthening the artistic and cultural sector of the nation.

The Minister of Culture, María Eugenia Herrera, welcomed the adoption of the initiative as a true project of the State that guarantees the preservation of Panamanian culture and the impetus of the artistic talent of children, youth and adults. "We are strengthening a firm, clear and sustainable basis for the cultural development of the country. The City of the Arts is an emblem of diversity, inclusion, innovation and national identity, that promotes artistic formation, enriches cultural life and strengthens the social ties of our communities, enabling the reconstruction of the social fabric," emphasized the Minister Herrera.

Established since 2009, the City of the Arts has been home to the National Ballet, the National Symphony Orchestra and the Schools of Fine Arts. The Board, as a public law entity with mixed participation including the State, the private sector and civil society, will have the task of promoting cultural planning, encouraging community participation and ensuring the continuity of a national cultural project.

That legal framework protects a key legacy for Panama, promoting national identities and the creative development of new generations. The City of the Arts forms the heart of the artistic formation of the country with spaces dedicated to dance, music, theater, cinema, plastic arts and cultural education.

"Today Panama takes a firm step to the future. The Board will allow the City of the Arts to grow independently and with a strategic vision and transparent management, interlinked with the cultural, educational and community sectors," stated Minister Herrera after approval.

The bill will now be passed to the President of the Republic, José Raúl Mulino, for promulgation into Official Gazette.