At Serviestiba, continuous training is more than just a practice — it's a core part of our organizational culture. This time, seven new workers have successfully completed the training program to become Refrigerated Container Repair Technicians , strengthening the team operating at the Port of Balboa. This new group of technicians has undergone rigorous preparation to excel in one of the most specialized tasks within the port environment. The training — lasting approximately 30 days — focused on diagnosing and repairing the world’s leading brands of refrigerated containers: Carrier, Star Cool, Daikin, and Thermo King . The program is mainly aimed at individuals with a technical background in refrigeration or electricity, ensuring high-quality standards in the maintenance of equipment that is essential to the logistics chain. Alejandro Sánchez , Head of Training at Serviestiba, emphasized the mindset instilled in every worker who takes on new challenges: “We always remind them that knowledge is never a burden. At Serviestiba, we value those who dare to learn continuously. The company trusts in their commitment, responsibility, and drive to grow.” With this new milestone, Serviestiba reaffirms its commitment to local talent , strengthening operations with skilled, responsible, and excellence-driven teams.Because at Serviestiba, every training is an investment in the future of the company and the country.

A total of 20 workers from the ports of Balboa and Cristóbal took part in a First Aid training session. The training was offered to staff from Industrial Safety and Occupational Health, as well as operational and administrative personnel, as part of ongoing efforts to ensure timely response in the event of an emergency at both ports. The training, which lasts approximately 7 hours, provides comprehensive instruction that combines theory with hands-on practice in response to specific incidents. Worker Kevin Racero described the training as phenomenal: “We learned techniques for dealing with drowning cases, and we also covered important laws related to medical emergencies.” Meanwhile, Reynaldo García, Industrial Safety and Occupational Health Officer, highlighted the value of these sessions: “This type of training is well received because it helps us expand our knowledge in emergency medical response, and as port workers, it equips us with the tools to provide support in any situation.” Dr. Katherine Willis, Chief Occupational Health Physician at the Serviestiba Workers’ Clinic, noted that two sessions of this kind are conducted each year to enhance workers’ knowledge.She added that participants are primarily from the Industrial Safety and Occupational Health departments, but also include operational staff whose duties require them to be prepared for emergency situations.

A total of 23 workers received their certificates officially recognizing them as Terminal Tractor Operators, as part of Serviestiba’s 2025 training plan. The new operators will begin their duties at the ports of Balboa and Cristóbal. Previously employed as stevedores, these workers are now advancing in their careers after years of dedicated service to the company. So far in 2025, the experience and commitment of workers at the Balboa and Cristóbal ports have been significantly strengthened. One of them, Harley Guzmán, age 34, sees this promotion as a major step forward: “With this, we are growing within the company, and we are very happy about it,” he said. Meanwhile, Gabriel Díaz, 29, shared that his years as an operational worker at Serviestiba have been filled with constant growth. “Being promoted to Terminal Tractor Operator is an important opportunity, and I’m grateful to the company for their support,” he stated. Kevin Ortega, 35, commented, “Achieving my personal and professional development within Serviestiba represents a great opportunity. I hope to continue growing here.” These promotions reflect real opportunities for professional advancement for workers willing to take on new challenges. At Serviestiba, the commitment to training and promoting human talent reaffirms that its greatest value lies in its people.

Committed to sustainable development and environmental protection, volunteers from Serviestiba joined efforts with staff from Chagres National Park, students from the Technological University of Panama and the Specialized University of the Americas for a cleanup day at Puerto Corotú, on the shores of Lake Alajuela. This initiative aims to mitigate the impact of waste that affects local communities and threatens biodiversity and water quality in the Panama Canal watershed—vital for supplying the provinces of Panama and Colón. Operational workers from the ports of Balboa and Cristóbal actively participated in waste collection, and also assisted in the removal of debris from a Corotú tree that had to be cut down due to phytosanitary concerns. The park, one of the country’s most important ecological lungs, faces serious challenges: at least 732 homes lack waste collection services, creating pollution hotspots that pose public health risks and threaten national and international visitors. This cleanup effort is part of Serviestiba’s Corporate Social Responsibility program, which participates annually in at least 3 to 4 beach and protected area cleanups alongside other environmentally committed institutions.

In an effort to protect biodiversity and reaffirm its commitment to caring for our common home, Serviestiba, S.A. actively participated in a reforestation day along the Brisa Norte path, in Brisas del Golf, where 300 Guayacán seedlings were planted in partnership with Automarket Rent a Car and the Fundación Moviendo Vidas. This meaningful environmental activity brought together operational volunteers from Serviestiba, employees from partner companies, and members of the Albrook Lions Club, all united by the same cause: to restore greenery to our environment and strengthen the business commitment to sustainable development. During the event, volunteers were assigned specific areas for planting. It was a pleasant experience where everyone was able to share and work together. The tree planting aims not only to mitigate the effects of climate change but also to promote ecological awareness among companies, citizens, and communities. These kinds of collaborative and solidarity-driven actions are part of the comprehensive sustainability vision promoted by Serviestiba, beyond its role in the logistics and port industry. The alliance with Automarket Rent a Car and Fundación Moviendo Vidas represents a valuable synergy, where the private sector becomes a key player in positive change.

As part of its commitment to sustainability and caring for the natural environment, Serviestiba, in partnership with Terpel and the administration of Chagres National Park, carried out an environmental volunteer day. The activity focused on restoring ecological trails that will serve the community, biodiversity, and responsible tourism. “We are making progress in rehabilitating the trail that leads to the Chagres viewpoint. It will soon be open to visitors. Caring for our common home is part of our commitment,” highlighted Abdiel Puyol, General Manager of Serviestiba. Luis Goldoni, Lubricants Director at Terpel, also participated and emphasized the value of these activities. “These kinds of experiences strengthen the relationship between both teams as business partners and help recover trails vital for the visitors who come to the park daily,” he said. Meanwhile, Euribiades González Núñez, Director of Chagres National Park, underscored the importance of raising awareness about this protected area. “We want more people to know that Chagres National Park exists and that it is a protected area of great national and international significance. Volunteer efforts like this are key to its conservation,” he affirmed. This initiative is part of the Drúa Project — a word in the Emberá language meaning “land, soil, or territory” — a proposal aimed at strengthening the bond between communities, the environment, and companies committed to sustainable development.

As part of its commitment to sustainability and caring for the natural environment, Serviestiba, in partnership with Terpel and the administration of Chagres National Park, carried out an environmental volunteer day. The activity focused on restoring ecological trails that will serve the community, biodiversity, and responsible tourism. “We are making progress in rehabilitating the trail that leads to the Chagres viewpoint. It will soon be open to visitors. Caring for our common home is part of our commitment,” highlighted Abdiel Puyol, General Manager of Serviestiba. Luis Goldoni, Lubricants Director at Terpel, also participated and emphasized the value of these activities. “These kinds of experiences strengthen the relationship between both teams as business partners and help recover trails vital for the visitors who come to the park daily,” he said. Meanwhile, Euribiades González Núñez, Director of Chagres National Park, underscored the importance of raising awareness about this protected area. “We want more people to know that Chagres National Park exists and that it is a protected area of great national and international significance. Volunteer efforts like this are key to its conservation,” he affirmed. This initiative is part of the Drúa Project — a word in the Emberá language meaning “land, soil, or territory” — a proposal aimed at strengthening the bond between communities, the environment, and companies committed to sustainable development.

In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability and community development, Serviestiba carried out the distribution of 400 fruit tree seedlings to its employees working at the ports of Balboa and Cristóbal, as part of its reforestation support program. This activity was conducted in partnership with the Fundación Solidaridad y Desarrollo de Panamá (FUSODEP). This initiative strengthens the company’s Drúa and Huella Verde programs—key pillars of Serviestiba’s sustainability strategy—aimed at promoting environmental awareness both within and beyond its port operations. Each port received 200 seedlings, including fruit species such as avocado, orange, lemon, and grapefruit, selected for their nutritional value, climate adaptability, and contribution to the natural environment. The trees will be planted by the employees themselves at home, encouraging green spaces and reinforcing the connection between the company and the communities where it operates. "Planting a tree is planting the future. In an industry where water is life and a driving force, we understand that preserving the environment is an essential part of our mission," said Abdiel Puyol, General Manager of Serviestiba. Meanwhile, Roberto González, representative of FUSODEP, expressed gratitude for Serviestiba’s support, highlighting that this collaboration directly benefits farming families from the Ngäbe Buglé region and rural communities, who grow these seedlings as part of their self-sustainability model.

After years of commitment, discipline, and operational excellence, ten employees of Serviestiba, S.A. have begun training as yard tractor operators — marking a significant milestone in their careers within the port industry. These workers, each with 9 to 10 years of dockside experience, are a clear example of the talent that is developed and strengthened through daily operations. Their promotion reaffirms the company's commitment to fostering a culture of internal growth. “I’m very grateful for this new step. We now have the opportunity to train as yard tractor operators, and every bit of knowledge we gain is welcome,”  said Sergio Magaña, one of the trainees, with enthusiasm. The yard tractor operator role is essential for handling containerized cargo at the ports of Balboa and Cristóbal. It requires experience, precision, and a strong sense of responsibility. Serviestiba, aware of these demands, reaffirms its commitment to developing internal talent. The training includes specialized technical instruction, hands-on operational practice, strict application of safety measures, and the use of cutting-edge equipment. “At Serviestiba, we firmly believe in rewarding perseverance and dedication. This promotion provides our employees with real opportunities for professional development,”  said Abdiel Puyol, General Manager of Serviestiba. This program is part of Serviestiba’s broader commitment to building a workplace that values merit and promotes both individual and collective growth.

A group of women from the province of Colón has begun a training program to become Cargo Verifiers at Serviestiba’s facilities located in the Port of Cristóbal. This initiative marks a significant milestone in gender inclusion within the maritime-logistics sector and is made possible through a strategic partnership between the Colón Municipality and the company. The participants are seeking to gain knowledge, acquire experience, and find in employment a stable source of income for their families. The training, which will conclude in the coming days, opens the doors of the maritime-port sector to women with equal operational capabilities as their male counterparts. “For years, the port industry has been seen as a male-dominated space, but today we know that true progress comes when we include talent regardless of gender. The participation of women at all levels of operations and leadership enriches our capacity and strengthens our vision for the future,”  said Abdiel Puyol, General Manager of Serviestiba. The training includes instruction in industrial safety and occupational health, in addition to mandatory alcohol and drug testing, following the same procedures applied to operational personnel, ensuring high safety standards are met. “At Serviestiba, the inclusion of women in the maritime-logistics sector is a key element for the industry's growth. Women are disciplined, resilient, and responsible, which brings tangible benefits to the company,”  said José García, Operations Manager at the Port of Cristóbal. Stephanie Ortega, one of the participants, added: “As women, we feel grateful. This training is a stepping stone that opens doors for more women. We apply what we know and learn what we didn’t. Thank you, Serviestiba, for allowing us to live this experience.” Currently, female participation in Panama’s port industry remains low, with women occupying only 21% of managerial positions in concessioned ports. Initiatives like this represent a concrete step toward a more equitable and inclusive industry. Upon completing their training, these women will be eligible to join the Serviestiba team and become pioneers of change in the journey toward a more inclusive port industry.

As part of the third edition of the Green Footprint Project  —an initiative born from the collaboration between Serviestiba and the Technological University of Panama (UTP)— more than 80 volunteers, including company employees and university students, participated in the planting of 100 seedlings. The goal: to strengthen biodiversity along the nationally protected trails within the university campus. The newly planted trees were placed in areas designated for walking and recreational activities, contributing to ecosystem restoration and promoting the ecological use of these natural spaces. With this recent effort, the project has reached a total of 300 trees planted since its launch in 2023. “At Serviestiba, we are committed to caring for our common home. The biodiversity of our surroundings matters, and that’s why we actively support this project through the dedication of our team — both operational and administrative — who enthusiastically take part in these initiatives,”  said Abdiel Puyol, General Manager of Serviestiba. Meanwhile, Alex Mathus, Vice-Rector for Student Life at UTP, expressed the university’s gratitude for the partnership: “As an academic institution, we are thankful for this alliance, which has even inspired the involvement of other companies in reforesting key areas along these trails — home to a rich variety of flora and fauna.” This collaborative effort continues to promote environmental responsibility and community engagement, reinforcing the value of partnerships in preserving Panama’s natural heritage.

As part of the follow-up on the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed last March between Serviestiba and the Municipality of Colón, Mayor Diógenes Galván visited the young participants of the training program aimed at strengthening their skills. This initial group is part of a joint strategy designed to facilitate the labor market integration of young people from Colón. Serviestiba is responsible for coordinating job vacancy management as needed, while the Municipality provides soft skills training for all interested applicants. During his visit, the mayor engaged with the program participants, highlighting their dedication and commitment throughout the training process. "They represent what we want to see in our community: people with a positive attitude, discipline, strong soft skills, and above all, a desire to grow," Galván stated. "At Serviestiba, we believe in the talent of Colón. We are proud to witness the progress of these young people, who today represent the future of our operations," said Abdiel Puyol, General Manager of the company.