At a press conference, the Interinstitutional Technical Committee (ITC) of the South American Youth Games Panama 2026 presented an overall report on Panama 2026’s presence on social media, highlighting the sustained growth in reach, engagement, and brand visibility of the Games key factors for the national and international projection of the most important sporting event hosted by the country.
The conference was attended by members of the ITC and authorities involved in the organization and promotion of the Games. Among them were Anamae Orillac, General Director of Panama 2026; Ángel Rangel, representing the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF); Gloria De León, from the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP); and Damaris Young, President of the Panama Olympic Committee (COP) and member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Also in attendance were Miguel Ordóñez, General Director of Pandeportes; Mario Moccia, Vice President of the South American Sports Organization (ODESUR); Virna Luque, representative of the Ministry of the Presidency; Daniela Rodríguez, athletes’ representative; and Armando Solís, representative of the Panama City Mayor’s Office.
The role of digital media as a strategic tool to strengthen connections with citizens, athletes, and the region was emphasized. In this regard, during its first week of competition, Panama 2026 recorded 57 million impressions, 3.61 million mentions, and 415.93 thousand interactions across social media and digital platforms, along with 72.5% positive comments and 20% neutral, reflecting the event’s high level of reach and acceptance.
During the conference, the General Director of Pandeportes stated that the projected economic impact of the Games for the country is estimated at $2.91 in return for every dollar invested, based on a total investment of $30 million—figures that reflect the return and benefits generated by the event.
Likewise, the importance of the legacy that the South American Youth Games Panama 2026 will leave was highlighted, both in terms of the country’s international tourism positioning and the strengthening of its logistical and organizational capacities. The inspiring value of the event for new generations was also underscored, encouraging children and young people to get involved in sports and to envision themselves as future representatives of Panama in national and international competitions.
With this report, the Organizing Committee reaffirmed its commitment to continue providing transparent updates on the progress of Panama 2026 and to consolidate a strong platform that supports the sporting, social, and cultural development brought by the South American Youth Games to the country.
