Panama marked the 62nd anniversary of January 9, 1964, with a solemn ceremony held in front of the monument dedicated to the martyrs of that historic date. During the event, national authorities and representatives of the Panama Canal paid tribute, on behalf of the nation, to those whose courage and sacrifice helped pave the way toward Panama’s full sovereignty.

The ceremony began at 8:30 a.m. under clear skies and commemorated the events of January 9, 1964, when young Panamanians defended the right to raise the national flag in the former Canal Zone. That moment became a turning point in the country’s history, eventually leading to the signing of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties and the transfer of the Panama Canal to Panama on December 31, 1999.

President José Raúl Mulino led the ceremony by laying a wreath at the monument, accompanied by Minister for Canal Affairs José Ramón Icaza, Panama Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales, cabinet ministers, government officials, relatives of the martyrs, and surviving heroes of that historic struggle.

Following the tribute, Foreign Minister Javier Martínez Acha delivered an emotional address, highlighting the enduring place of the martyrs in Panama’s historical memory and reaffirming the nation’s commitment to freedom and sovereignty. The ceremony also included the performance of the National Anthem and the presentation of a commemorative plaque to the President by the heroes of January 9, as a symbol of gratitude and commitment to preserving historical memory.

Earlier in the day, a separate ceremony was held at Jardín de Paz, where Minister Icaza reflected on the deeper meaning of the date. He emphasized that honoring the martyrs also means operating the Panama Canal with neutrality and excellence, protecting water resources as the foundation of life and service, fostering innovation with vision and responsibility, and ensuring that the Canal’s benefits reach all Panamanians.

The Panama Canal Authority said it remains committed to preserving this legacy by transforming memory into future action through responsible management and long-term vision. The martyrs of January 9, 1964 continue to stand as a living symbol of national sovereignty and a foundation of Panama’s identity.