First Woman Takes Helm of Panama Canal

Ilya Espino de Marotta took office as the first woman to lead the Panama Canal, beginning a seven-year term through 2033 after more than four decades at the institution. She assumes command as the canal confronts renewed risks to freshwater supplies from below-normal rainfall and El Niño, following drought-related transit restrictions that disrupted global shipping. Her priorities include advancing the proposed $1.5 billion Río Indio reservoir, which is intended to support canal operations and provide drinking water for much of Panama, while addressing community and environmental concerns. The canal also plans to expand its role through new terminals, energy infrastructure and logistics businesses, building on Espino de Marotta’s experience helping oversee the previous expansion.