Panama, March 5, 2026. - In a step to preserve cultural identity and promote tourism, the National Assembly's Plenary adopted, in third debate, Bill 80, amending Act 136 of 2013. That legal initiative modernizes the fiscal and conservation regime applicable to the historic Monument of the Casco Antiguo of Panama City.

The main aim of the reform, advanced by the Ministry of Culture, is to extend fiscal incentives and protective measures to the adjacent areas of Casco Antiguo and to the historic centre of Colón. It aims to replicate the success model of urban rehabilitation on the Atlantic coast and to promote private investment and the sustainable development of these areas critical to national heritage.

Key issues of adoption:
Extension of Incentives: Extent of fiscal benefits for the rehabilitation of properties within monumental sets, enabling owners and investors to continue with the value of historic structures.
Expansion to Colón: For the first time, a similar incentive framework for Colón's historic centre is formally integrated, recognizing its architectural value and tourist potential.
Legal Security: The Act repeats previous regulations (such as Act 53 of 2017) to unify technical criteria for conservation and to avoid legal fragmentation and strengthen monitoring of historic heritage.

Following its support at the third debate, the document will be sent to the President of the Republic for his official sanction and subsequent promulgation in the Official Gazette.