Panama Teachers Protest for Raise
After four months of unsuccessful negotiations with the government, Panamanian teachers started actions in the streets Wednesday to demand a salary increase, although they confirmed they would continue conversations.

After the deadline set for the Executive expired, teachers began marches and protests in the entire national territory.

As part of these actions, the National Coordinating Office (13 Panama unions) marched to the Executive office building.

Members of the Teachers Front of Action will hold a vigil with torches at the Don Bosco Basilica in Panama City.

The teachers have lowered their demands to $150 a month additional, but Panamanian Education Minister Miguel Angel Canizares while recognizing that teachers deserved a salary increase, said the budget did not allow more than 65 dollars.

Last week union leaders met twice with Canizares, but no agreement was reached.

Teachers insist the government offer is not enough to meet their needs considering reduction by taxes.