APATEL, the Panamanian Hotel Association, requested the National Government reconsider the mandatory discount increases in Bill 226, warning that the measure could strain the liquidity of small and medium-sized hotels and affect their ability to maintain jobs and investments. ^[1] A devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the region on August 10, 2026, with its epicenter located in San José del Palmar, Chocó. ^[2] Official figures state that 111 people died in the region due to the earthquake, with 97 of those fatalities occurring in Pereira. ^[3] Pereira, the capital of Risaralda, Colombia, celebrated its 163rd anniversary on August 30, 2026, marking the date of its founding. ^[4] Barranquilla Mayor Alejandro Char stated on September 1, 2026, that the city recorded its lowest homicide figures in seven months following the transfer of 24 criminal suspects. ^[5][11] The tourism and hotel sector in Caldas is advancing in its recovery following the recent earthquake. ^[6] APATEL indicated that the hotel and restaurant sector sustains around 120,000 formal jobs, with a significant participation in the labor incorporation of young people and the generation of economic opportunities in various regions. ^[7] APATEL proposed that the mandatory discount be maintained at 40% during weekends to avoid affecting the financial sustainability of hotel companies. ^[8] The National Assembly approved Bill 226 in third debate, which raises the mandatory discount on lodging to 50% from Monday to Thursday and 40% on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, applying to both regular and promotional rates. ^[9] Mayor Mauricio Salazar stated during the anniversary ceremony that the earthquake tested the city's civism and bravery, noting that the community's heart could not be shaken. ^[10] President Abelardo De La Espriella announced on September 1, 2026, that the national government would transfer and isolate high-danger criminals linked to criminal structures present in Barranquilla. ^[12]