The National Emergency Secretariat (SEN) reactivated the temporary shelter in the Tacumbú neighborhood of Asunción as part of Operation Jaho'i 2026. On the first night, four homeless men were taken in, receiving shelter, food, and basic care. SEN asks the public to report cases of vulnerability by calling 911 or (0986) 111 001.
Ultima Hora
https://www.ultimahora.com/WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed concern over the speed and scope of the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has already caused 131 deaths and 513 suspected cases. The virus has spread to Uganda, with two deaths recorded, leading the WHO to declare an international emergency.
In the early hours of Tuesday, a car fell into a deep hole on Pozo Favorito Street in the Central neighborhood of Mariano Roque Alonso, Central Department. The driver, Medardo Olmedo, was unharmed, but the vehicle had to be removed by a tow truck. Residents attribute the asphalt collapse to the rupture of Essap pipes and recent rains, and criticize the administration of Mayor Carolina Aranda for lack of maintenance.
The National Directorate of Civil Aviation (Dinac) confirmed that Gol Linhas Aéreas has reopened talks for the direct route between Asunción and Miami. Tuesday's meeting with the Chief of Staff of the Presidency, Javier Giménez, may define the next steps, including the issue of the subsidy demanded by the airline.
A serious accident on Ruta Acceso Sur in Itá left four women injured after a truck collided with and dragged their car into a drainage ditch. Two elderly women were hospitalized with suspected fractures.
The attorney for the Colorado Añetete movement, Cecilia Pérez, stated that the supposed audit of the voting machines was actually just a technical presentation, and that the Cartismo faction itself acknowledges flaws by supporting new audits.
New IPS board member Mirtha Arias promises to combat medical supply shortages and employer evasion, but faces distrust from insured member associations questioning her independence.
Jorge Daniel Samudio, known as 'Freddie Mercury', was detained along with two other men, including a retired non-commissioned officer of the Armed Forces, suspected of robbing two gas stations in Limpio, Central Department. Police seized a vehicle, a pistol, and ammunition.
The government of Javier Milei approved the technical pre-qualification of two international consortia to operate the Paraná and Paraguay rivers waterway, even after the Prosecution Office for Administrative Investigations pointed out "serious and evident irregularities" in the process.
Deputy prosecutor Soledad Machuca was removed from the Economic Crimes and Anti-Corruption Unit (UDEA) and the Money Laundering area in a restructuring ordered by Attorney General Emiliano Rolón. She leaves a trail of sensitive cases stalled or controversially shelved, prompting calls for an audit and criticism from lawyers and politicians.
Starting this Tuesday, Paraguay's Vice Ministry of Transport began applying staggered fines to bus companies that do not transmit their real-time GPS location, as part of the Integral Control and Monitoring System (SICM). The measure aims to combat frequent 'reguladas' (fleet reductions) and improve service for users.
While Mercosur recorded an 8% increase in beef exports between January and April 2026, Paraguay saw a 25% contraction, the largest relative decline in the bloc. The average price per ton rose 17%, but shipped volume fell to 87,899 tons.
An audit by the Executive Branch found that, of approximately 100 recommendations made to internal control bodies, only 2.5% were implemented during Jorge Brítez's tenure at the Social Insurance Institute (IPS). Two accounting systems with abysmal differences in balances and a risky procedure allowing payment to medication suppliers without proof of delivery were identified.
Two Belgian multinationals, Jan De Nul and DEME, are competing for the 25-year concession of the Paraná-Paraguay waterway, a route that handles 80% of Argentine exports and also serves Brazil, Bolivia, Uruguay, and Paraguay. The final decision depends on the economic proposals, while Argentina's Administrative Investigations Prosecutor's Office points to irregularities in the process.
From June 3 to 6, the Itaipu Binacional hydroelectric plant on the Paraguay-Brazil border will host the 38th meeting of UNESCO's International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB-ICC). The event, with about 250 participants from 34 countries, will focus on clean energy and natural reserve management.
Saudi Arabia has launched its first quantum computer, installed at the state-owned Aramco data center, in collaboration with French company Pasqal. The initiative includes the Middle East's first commercial Quantum Computing as a Service (QCaaS) platform, targeting applications in energy, materials, and industry.
Paraguay's Ministry of Health records an average of 348 weekly dengue notifications, with 57 confirmed cases in the last three weeks, predominantly in the Central Department and Asunción. The DENV-1 serotype has been identified. Two cases of chikungunya have also been confirmed in Pedro Juan Caballero, one imported from Bolivia. Authorities warn to maintain prevention measures even with the cold.
UNESCO released on Monday the Spanish version of the Virtual Museum of Stolen Cultural Property, an interactive platform featuring 241 missing items from 47 countries, with notable participation from Spanish-speaking nations, including Paraguay, which contributed two objects. The initiative has already aided in the recovery of pieces such as the gold helmet of Coțofenești from Romania.
A 16-year-old teenager is hospitalized in intensive care at the Trauma Hospital of Asunción after being run over by a pickup truck in Capiatá, Central Department. The driver, aged 70, tested negative for alcohol but was under the effect of controlled medications. Family members demand the driver's responsibility for the costs.
Thieves stole all food and utensils from the makeshift kitchen of San Lorenzo Basic School in General Resquín, San Pedro, interrupting the Hambre Cero program for two days. Parents denounce the precarious infrastructure and demand action from authorities.
The Municipal Council for Children and Adolescents (Codeni) of Presidente Franco, Alto Paraná, has extrajudicially notified the parents of three children who refuse to vaccinate them against measles and other preventable diseases. The Family Health Unit of the San Miguel neighborhood reported the case after exhausting attempts at dialogue. If the situation is not regularized, the case will be forwarded to the Public Prosecutor's Office and the Public Defender's Office, potentially resulting in mandatory vaccination or a penalty of up to three years in prison for violation of the duty of care.
Associations of retirees from the Social Security Institute (IPS) announced they will request the resignation of board members José Emilio Argaña and José Jara Rojas, while expressing support for the institution's president, Isaías Fretes.
The Municipality of Asunción reminds that the deadline to renew driver's licenses expires on May 31. The Centro Paraguayo Japonés (CPJ) and a post in the Sajonia neighborhood are authorized for the service. Drivers aged 65 or older must undergo mandatory annual medical exams, according to Ordinance 113/17.
Paraguay's Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) issued an agrometeorological alert due to a forecast of a sharp temperature drop starting May 19, with frost risk in the central and southern regions of the Eastern Region. The agency recommends preventive measures for sensitive crops and livestock production.
Paraguay's Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) informed that temporary detours on Silvio Pettirossi Avenue, between Elizardo Aquino and Ñu Guasu avenues, remain in effect for the construction of the foundation heads of the viaduct for the Las Residentas road corridor. The measure, expected to last about ten days, alters traffic in both directions and requires increased driver attention.
The Embassy of Taiwan, together with the Taiwanese community and students from the Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University, promoted a cleanup day on Asunción's Costanera to raise awareness about environmental care and reinforce the request for Taiwan's participation in international forums.
Two pickup trucks collided on Monday afternoon at the intersection of Del Maestro and O'Higgins streets in the Villa Morra neighborhood of Asunción. The impact threw a white Kia against an electrical pole, which prevented it from overturning. Both drivers suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene. Residents and workers in the area denounce the lack of stop signs at the intersection, cited as a recurring cause of accidents.
Argentine musician Fito Páez has released the short film 'Todos os Fitos', directed by José Fogwill, which precedes the release of his new album 'Shine' on May 21. The work presents four versions of the artist in an introspective dialogue about memory, rebirth, and the domestic accident he suffered in 2024.
Painter Horacio Guimaraens opens this Tuesday (19) the solo exhibition 'Les coupoles de Paris' at the Galeria de Arte com Aroma Café in Asunción. The show brings together ten large-format acrylic-on-canvas works depicting emblematic domes of the French capital in an architectural realism style.
On May 30, Palma Street in Asunción will host the second edition of the Palmear Sin Fronteras Fair, bringing together 16 immigrant communities with typical cuisine, artistic performances, and traditional dances in a day of multicultural integration.
The Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (Mitic) issued an alert about fraudulent text messages promising a fake 'Bono Mujer' of G. 600,000, aiming to steal victims' personal and financial data.
Human Rights Watch calls on Salvadoran authorities to guarantee a swift, open, and fair trial for Ruth López, a lawyer and human rights defender detained since May 2025 on charges of illicit enrichment. The organization warns of a pattern of indefinite pretrial detention against government critics.
Opposition lawmakers in Paraguay criticize Comptroller General Camilo Benítez, claiming he uses an alleged gap in Law 5189/14 to avoid sanctioning agencies that do not disclose employee salaries, such as binational entities. They point to selectivity in audits and complicity with the Cartes/Peña government.
Paraguay's Public Ministry has charged suspended peace judge Carmen Analía Cibils and former judge Nathalia Garcete in two new cases related to the scheme known as the 'promissory note mafia'. The accusations include malfeasance, document forgery, and false notifications, expanding the scope of the investigation that was already in the oral trial phase.
A 20-year-old player, who had been posing as a 14-year-old to participate in a youth tournament, punched a referee in the face after a match in Caaguazú. The attacker was arrested and the referee suffered a facial fracture.
Rocío Ojeda, former director of the Animal Protection Commission of the National Congress, denounces that she was dismissed without formal justification and without access to the administrative process, despite having job stability and suffering from multiple sclerosis. She says she continues to work her hours while awaiting the end of her notice period on May 30, and that the President of Congress, Basilio Bachi Núñez, said he was unaware of the case.
A 31-year-old woman was the victim of a violent aggravated robbery in the rural area of Concepción, where two armed men intercepted her, took her hostage, and stole more than Gs. 107 million in cash, checks, and belongings. The National Police is investigating the case.
Internal movements of the Authentic Radical Liberal Party (PLRA) have warned of irregularities in the use of voting machines in the internal elections scheduled for June 7, including problems in contracting, lack of technical audit, and absence of oversight in the preparation of equipment. Senator Éver Villalba announced that the party will implement a parallel control system, with the participation of voters themselves and its own TREP.
A 16-year-old teenager died after violently colliding his motorcycle against a guardrail on Route PY02, in J. Eulogio Estigarribia, Caaguazú Department. Police are investigating the possibility that the young man was participating in illegal street races.
Paraguay's Consumer Confidence Index (ICC) fell to 40.17 points in April 2026, a drop of 11.15 points from March, returning to pessimistic territory. The Economic Situation Index (ISE) plunged to 29.33 points, while the Economic Expectations Index (IEE) stood at 51 points, still in optimistic territory. Only 15.5% of respondents said they had conditions to save, and the intention to purchase durable goods fell, except for housing. The Central Bank of Paraguay (BCP) released the data.
Paraguay's Ministry of Education and Sciences presented Planatea, a plan that guarantees access, retention, and learning for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, with mandatory implementation in public and private schools.
Paraguay's Public Ministry on Monday requested a 6-year prison sentence for former sports executive Ramón González Daher, accused of lying under oath in 2021 during a defamation lawsuit filed by Conmebol president Alejandro Domínguez. The defense claims the defendant invented a voluntary resignation from the vice presidency of the Paraguayan Football Association (APF), but official documents show he was removed for failing a fitness exam.
Of the nearly 9,800 people serving house arrest in Paraguay, only 123 use electronic ankle monitors, according to official data. The government admits that most lack effective monitoring and plans to expand the system.
The San Lorenzo City Hall states that the internal bus fare remains at G. 2,800, per municipal ordinance, but users report that transport companies are already charging G. 3,500. The City Council did not authorize the adjustment, and a request for a tripartite meeting made by transporters in April was not processed in time.
State Attorney General Emiliano Rolón removed Deputy Attorney María Soledad Machuca from the Specialized Unit for Economic Crimes and Anti-Corruption and the Money Laundering Unit, following questions about alleged shelving of emblematic cases. Nancy Salomón takes over the position.
César Adrián Medina, 31, was arrested by the National Police in downtown Asunción after a report of theft of car emblems. Four Toyota logos and two table knives, allegedly used to remove the accessories, were found with him. Police are investigating the origin of the objects and possible receiving of stolen goods.
The current president of the Social Security Institute (IPS), Isaías Fretes, and the Auditor General of the Executive Branch, Alberto Cabrera, said that the previous administration, headed by Jorge Brítez, implemented only 2 of 100 audit recommendations, classifying internal control as 'failed'.
Despite the reduction of monetary poverty to around 16% in 2025, the organization PRODesarrollo warns that the improvement in indicators coexists with a fragile economic base, marked by informality, low productivity, and household indebtedness.
The Paraguayan Senate on Wednesday (19) addresses 19 items, including the promotion request of National Police Commander César Roberto Silguero Lobos and the designation of concurrent ambassadors to various countries. Senator Celeste Amarilla harshly criticized a bill establishing the 'National Vori Vori Day,' calling it 'stupid' amid the social crisis.
Two criminals on a motorcycle approached a young man on a dirt road in the Mbachio neighborhood of Lambaré, shot him in the foot, and stole his motorcycle and other belongings. The victim underwent surgery and is recovering.
The president of IPS, Isaías Fretes, announced a complete audit of the social security institution's properties, aiming to identify the actual number of real estate assets, who rents them and for how much, with the goal of increasing transparency and combating possible irregularities.
Jorge Aranda, a driver for the Bolt platform, accepted a duck as payment after a passenger from Ypané had no money for the ride. The animal, a female, was given as a Mother's Day gift to the driver's mother.
The Chamber of Commerce and Services of Ciudad del Este sent a letter to President Santiago Peña requesting the full opening of the Puente de la Integración as of July 1, 2026, amid the impasse in negotiations with Brazil, which maintains restrictions on light vehicle traffic.
In the early hours of May 18, the Ministry of Childhood and Adolescence (MINNA) coordinated an inter-institutional operation that removed 42 indigenous children and adolescents from the streets of Ciudad del Este, in the department of Alto Paraná. Three minors were without adult reference; a repeat offender woman and her seven children were taken to the MINNA Open Shelter Refuge by court order. The others underwent medical examinations and were sent back to their communities of origin in Guairá, Caazapá, and Alto Paraná.
The Bolivian government stated this Monday (18) that it identified alleged armed groups among the demonstrators marching toward La Paz to demand the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. Presidential spokesperson José Luis Gálvez pointed to a former Ministry of Defense employee as the leader of a radical faction that displayed weapons in a video on social media.
The Family Health Unit (USF) in Ycuá Karanday, Luque, has been ready for months but has not yet opened due to a lack of equipment and supplies. The community, awaiting services such as vaccination and dentistry, already sees health professionals circulating, but the doors remain closed.
The Chaco Sentencing Court begins on Wednesday, May 20, the trial of Judge Amado Yuruhan, accused of sexually harassing a cleaner at the Filadelfia Courthouse in October 2022. The case, reported two days after the incident, will be analyzed by judges Carlos Lezcano, Myrian Núñez, and Shirley Romero.
The chief of staff of the ANR, Eduardo González, stated that Senator Lilian Samaniego requested the postponement of the Colorado Party's internal elections, but she denies the accusation and demands an audit of the voting machines. The TEP guarantees that the audit will be carried out without altering the calendar.
The Trial Court has set June 3 as the start of the oral trial of Alexandre Rodríguez Gomes, son of the late deputy Eulalio Lalo Gomes, accused of international drug trafficking, money laundering, and criminal association. The prosecution alleges that the Gomes clan moved G. 175.526 million between 2015 and 2021 and laundered money for drug trafficker Jarvis Chimenes Pavão.
The Directorate of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) forecasts that the cold will continue in Paraguay this Tuesday, May 19, with lows of 6°C in some regions and highs between 18°C and 20°C. The sky will be partly cloudy, with no rain forecast. The National Emergency Secretariat (SEN) maintains the Jaho'i operation to shelter homeless people.
The former chief of staff of the Asunción City Hall, Wilfrido Cáceres, and his wife, Ruth Jazmín Da Silva Almirón, will be tried starting July 27 for illicit enrichment and money laundering. The accusation points to bank transactions incompatible with legal income and simulated transfers of assets to alleged front men.
Amid the geopolitical dispute between China, Taiwan, and the United States, Paraguay has become a stage for intense diplomatic and economic pressure. Businesspeople, legislators, and political sectors push for a potential shift in relations toward Beijing, while Taiwan tries to maintain the historic alliance.
Appeals Court confirms rejection of former senator Erico Galeano's appeal, sentenced to 13 years for money laundering and criminal association. With the decision, the Sentencing Court may schedule a hearing to decide on preventive detention.
The president of the Social Insurance Institute (IPS), Isaías Fretes, announced the removal of 817 items from the official vademecum, as part of a plan to reduce the financial deficit and combat corruption hotspots. The measure could generate savings of US$ 20 to 25 million per month.
The Sentencing Tribunal was recused by the defense of one of the accused, and the new trial is suspended until a decision by the Court of Appeals. The victim's father criticizes the delay and announces a protest.
Lawyer Solange Guerreño, representing the attorney accused of installing GPS and cameras in his ex-partner's vehicle and home, denies the allegations and questions the impartiality of prosecutor Irma Llano from the Paraguayan Public Ministry.
A Paraguayan Navy sub-officer, with 0.780 mg/L of alcohol in his blood, lost control of his car on Route PY01 (former South Access), invaded the opposite lane, and violently crashed into a Scania truck. No one was seriously injured.
Three hooded men broke into a house in the Santa Isabel neighborhood of Katueté, Canindeyú, and held two women hostage for nearly two hours. They took about 28 million guaranis in cash, made bank transfers of approximately 29.4 million guaranis, and fled in a Volkswagen Saveiro. Police recovered the vehicle abandoned in a cornfield and arrested Antonio Varela Giret, owner of one of the accounts used in the transfers.
Colorado senator Derlis Maidana calls on the political class to support the Electoral Justice and not to sow distrust in the voting machines for party primaries.
Lucía Morel Alves, a businesswoman from Pedro Juan Caballero, had her laundry Conesul attacked by gunfire in the early hours of this Monday, two days after the funeral home Pax Conesul, also her property, was targeted by shots. Police are investigating the motive for the attacks and the authorship of the threats.
Sixty women deprived of liberty were transferred from the Concepción Regional Penitentiary to the Prison Complex for Women Deprived of Liberty (Comple), in Emboscada, Cordillera department, as part of Operation Umbral 2.5. Only 15 inmates remained in Concepción. The Ministry of Justice has not disclosed the selection criteria or the identity of those transferred.
A young driver lost control of his pickup truck, collided with a tree on the median strip, and overturned in the early hours of Monday (18) on Avenida Médicos del Chaco in Asunción. The accident caused no injuries but resulted in significant material damage.
Paraguay's Comptroller General's Office has initiated a summary proceeding against former Senator Javier 'Chaqueñito' Vera for failing to submit his sworn asset declaration within the legal 15-business-day deadline after leaving office. Vera claims forgetfulness and says he is organizing the documentation, while the Comptroller's Office warns that the fine could reach 100% of his salary, depending on the days of delay.
The Directorate of Meteorology of Paraguay forecasts a week of intense cold, with minimum temperatures between 7°C and 14°C and highs up to 20°C. The weather will remain cold to cool, with winds from the south and low probability of rain in most of the country.
Iranian activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi has been discharged from the coronary care unit of Pars Hospital in Tehran and is at home under medical supervision. Her daughter and the Narges Mohammadi Foundation warn that returning to prison would pose a life-threatening risk.
A lawyer was detained this Monday (18) in Santa Rita, Alto Paraná, during Operation Omega, an international action against child sexual exploitation. He is suspected of storing, distributing, and selling child sexual abuse material, receiving payments in cryptocurrencies. The investigation, which began in 2019, analyzed over 35,000 files and may lead to further arrests abroad.
Foundation work for the pillars of the future Las Residentas Corridor viaduct in Luque causes detours on the Silvio Pettirossi highway between General Aquino Avenue and Ñu Guasu. The closures are expected to last until May 26, subject to weather conditions.
With both IPS angiographs out of service, the pension fund signed agreements with Hospital de Clínicas and Hospital San Jorge to handle urgent cases. Five insured individuals have already been treated. The pension fund states that one device will be repaired soon and that it will begin the process to acquire three new machines.
The Central Bank of Paraguay (BCP) allocated G. 330,084 million to monetary control measures between January and April 2026, a slight reduction of 3% compared to the same period in 2025. Interest on Monetary Regulation Instruments (IRM) accounted for 57% of the total.
Auto parts theft in Paraguay has evolved from a crime of opportunity into a structured illicit industry, moving millions per day. The made-to-order request model fuels the black market, with parts openly sold on social media. In Asunción, up to 250 thefts are recorded daily, and impunity is high, with detainees released in less than 24 hours.
The Comptroller General of the Republic (CGR) fined 162 mayors, both former and current, for failing to submit their sworn asset declarations on time. In the Central and Alto Paraná departments alone, 15 officials were sanctioned, with fines reaching nearly G. 30 million.
Paraguay's National Electricity Administration (ANDE) is considering postponing the update of residential and commercial tariffs until negotiations with Brazil on the new Annex C of the Itaipu Treaty are concluded, expected by mid-year. The state-owned company's president, engineer Félix Sosa, stated that the final tariff will directly depend on this binational agreement, which will define the price of energy generated by the hydroelectric plant.
A survey by the Paraguayan Chamber of Meat (CPC) based on Senacsa data shows that between 2015 and 2025, more than 34,000 cattle farmers left the activity, while about 3% of establishments account for 61% of bovine production. The Eastern Region concentrates 90% of the reduction, with emphasis on San Pedro, Concepción, Caaguazú, Itapúa, and Caazapá.
With expectations of a record flow of visitors during winter break, the business sector of Ciudad del Este demands the full opening of the Puente de la Integración. Diplomatic negotiations with Brazil are stalled over demands for strict migration controls, while the city prepares for an economic boom that could generate up to 50,000 new jobs.
The Paraguayan Road Chamber (Cavialpa) demands from the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) the regulation of the factoring system to settle state debts with contractors. The sector warns that delays force private indebtedness and that current payments do not reduce the accumulated liability.
The Comptroller General of the Republic is studying legal measures to impose fines and sanctions on former public officials who leave office without updating their sworn declaration of assets, a practice that hinders the detection of illicit enrichment. Currently, the law only requires the submission of the document for salary payment, but does not provide for punishment for those leaving public service.
The president of the Authentic Radical Liberal Party (PLRA), Hugo Fleitas, defended maintaining alliances with all opposition forces, especially with the Yo Creo Party, aiming for the 2028 elections. The statement comes amid internal debates over the composition of the opposition ticket and rejection of possible vetoes against figures such as Miguel Prieto.
An ECLAC report points out that 89% of Paraguay's public debt is external and 82% is in dollars, exposing the country to exchange rate and fiscal risks, exacerbated by low tax pressure.
With the arrival of autumn and winter, a period of increased respiratory virus circulation, Paraguayan experts reinforce the importance of influenza vaccination for older adults, a group vulnerable to serious complications such as pneumonia and hospitalization. Doses are available in the public health network and at IPS.
The department of Ñeembucú, a stronghold of Vice President Pedro Alliana, remains immune to information requests, with the government bench and Deputy Fabiana Souto, Alliana's wife, systematically rejecting the requests. Opposition member Diosnel Aguilera denounces the existence of a 'chain of command' to block transparency.
In homilies at the Basilica of Caacupé and the Metropolitan Cathedral, Cardinal Adalberto Martínez and Bishop Ricardo Valenzuela warned that excessive use of AI can undermine critical thinking and human relationships, based on the message of Pope Leo XIV for the 60th World Communications Day.
Threats of school shootings in Paraguay, driven by viral challenges on social media, reveal a lack of family oversight and mobilize the Ministry of Education, Police, and Public Prosecutor's Office to strengthen security and prevention protocols.
Paraguay's Appeals Court is set to rule on an appeal that could lead to the pretrial detention of former Senator Erico Galeano, sentenced to 13 years for money laundering and criminal association. The defense is trying to avoid imprisonment, while the Public Prosecutor's Office is requesting immediate detention.
The Public Prosecutor's Office clarified that there is no confirmation that the 7-year-old boy, found dead alongside his mother in Lambaré, was a victim of sexual abuse, as alleged by the mother in a complaint filed in December 2024. A medical examination ruled out physical injuries and signs of sexual violence, and the child did not attend scheduled psychological interviews.
Three pre-candidates for councilor in the Paraguayan capital denounced the existence of parallel cash collection systems in Markets 4 and Abasto, as well as at the Asunción Bus Station, with daily collections allegedly reaching 100 million guaranis. They claim the scheme has been operating for over eight years and involves municipal employees and outsiders.
On World Telecommunications Day, the National Institute of Statistics (INE) reported that 85.4% of the population aged 10 or older accessed the internet in 2025, with women and urban areas leading, although the exclusion of Boquerón and Alto Paraguay limits the data's scope.
The Paraguayan government vehemently condemned the drone attack on the Barakah nuclear plant in the United Arab Emirates, which occurred on May 17, 2026. The incident, which caused a controlled fire outside the facility's inner perimeter, takes place amid escalating tensions between Iran and Gulf countries.
A large fire consumed a commercial establishment at Limpio Market, Central Department, on the afternoon of May 18. Volunteer firefighters controlled the flames and there were no injuries, only material damage. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
A red macaw (gua'a pytã) was rescued by volunteer firefighters in Concepción on Sunday night. The bird is under protection at the fire station, awaiting a decision from the environmental prosecutor.
Senator Lilian Samaniego, leader of the Causa Republicana movement, demands an audit of the voting machines for the Colorado Party primaries, scheduled for June 7. The Honor Colorado movement, led by former President Horacio Cartes, supports a potential audit but considers the request untimely and rejects postponing the electoral schedule.
On Saturday, May 17, two homicides were recorded in Cambyretá, Itapúa. A 28-year-old man was found dead with a gunshot wound to the head on a rural road, and another charred body was discovered inside a burned vehicle. Investigations are ongoing.
Yani Areco, a Paraguayan from Bella Vista Norte, was expelled from a bus in Chile after a passenger mistook the eucalyptus aroma of her mate for marijuana. The argument escalated with insults in Guarani, and both were disembarked by the driver.
The Laguna Pato community, in the Presidente Hayes Department of the Paraguayan Chaco, has again protested against the lack of state action. Leader Nanencio Amarilla traveled to Asunción to demand concrete measures from the Paraguayan Institute of Indigenous Affairs (Indi) after six years of unfulfilled promises.
Two violent robberies were recorded over the weekend in the Department of Alto Paraná. In Juan León Mallorquín, a motel employee was held up by two armed men; in Ciudad del Este, five criminals invaded a residence and stole electronics and cash. Police seized ammunition at the scene of the second crime.
Advisers to U.S. President Donald Trump have warned that the risk of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan within the next five years has increased following the meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing. Trump stated he does not seek war over the island but suggested Xi might act after his term.
Sol Aramí Brizuela Báez, from Ciudad del Este, graduated Summa cum laude in mechanical engineering from Tufts University in Boston. During the ceremony, she displayed the Paraguayan flag and greeted those present in Guaraní.
On World Hypertension Day, celebrated on May 17, Paraguay's Ministry of Health and the Paraguayan Society of Cardiology reinforce the importance of regular blood pressure control. The disease, known as the 'silent killer,' affects 38.6% of Paraguayans and is the leading preventable cause of premature death worldwide. Excessive salt consumption is identified as a critical factor.
The National Police of Paraguay and the Public Prosecutor's Office are conducting operations in Encarnación and Cambyretá to capture Gustavo Rubén Goncalvez Vera, the main suspect in the double homicide of Francisco Alcides Saucedo Quiñónez and Brian Ariel Lugo. During the raids, weapons, ammunition, drugs, and vehicles were seized, including a car reported stolen in Argentina. Investigations point to a possible connection with drug trafficking.
Saturday night, a man identified as the security guard of Colorado deputy Esteban Samaniego (ANR-HC) was involved in a fight with a driver in Quyquyhó, Paraguarí. The deputy himself tried to calm the situation, but none of those involved have filed a complaint so far.
Mónica Idalia González, 26, and her 7-year-old son were found dead in a boarding house in the Santa Luísa neighborhood of Lambaré. Police are investigating the hypothesis of filicide followed by suicide.
In a homily at the Basilica of Caacupé, Bishop Ricardo Valenzuela cautioned against the societal risks of artificial intelligence, urging a return to authentic human connection and warning of manipulation, passive consumption, and emotional dependence on technology.
Paraguay's Ministry of Justice began Operation Umbral 2.5 this Sunday, transferring female inmates from various prisons to the Women's Prison Complex (Comple) in Emboscada. The operation, supported by the National Defense Council (CODENA), aims to centralize female incarceration. The National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture (MNP) had previously reported serious human rights violations at Comple, including prolonged isolation and lack of mental health care.
Visitors to the Iberá Provincial Reserve in Corrientes, Argentina, recorded on video a young jaguar named Ombú calmly walking along the trails of the protected area. The NGO Red Yaguareté highlighted that this is the first time the animal has appeared in a tourist zone, a sign of recovery for the species, which was extinct in the province for more than half a century. Meanwhile, in Amambay, Paraguay, residents spotted a jaguar that is possibly a pregnant female.
With a fictive sanction date of May 21, the Chamber of Deputies must vote on a bill aimed at curbing the so-called 'Promissory Note Mafia,' a scheme that executes multiple collections with the same document. The proposal, drafted jointly with the Supreme Court, includes the custody of original titles in the courts and automatic return to the debtor after payment.
A pursuit by Brazil's Military Highway Police that began in Ponta Porã ended in Paraguay's Amambay department, leaving one woman dead and a man detained after their vehicle crashed into a pool.
A 28-year-old man was discovered dead inside a fully incinerated car in Cambyretá, Itapúa, with a bullet wound to the head. Authorities are investigating the case as a homicide.
The World Health Organization declared a public health emergency of international concern this Sunday due to an Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo strain, which has already killed 88 people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and spread to Uganda. The lack of a vaccine and specific treatment for this variant, combined with instability in the Goma region controlled by the M23 armed group, has raised global alarm.
The Directorate of Meteorology forecasts a cool day for this Sunday (17), with scattered showers and the possibility of electrical storms in the Chaco, north, and east of the Eastern Region. Temperatures are expected to range between 13°C and 22°C, with winds from the south. From Monday onward, the cold intensifies, with minimums possibly reaching 7°C on Tuesday.
El Salvador and Guatemala have joined eight Latin American countries, including Paraguay, in a joint declaration supporting the government of Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz amid protests and roadblocks that have lasted 11 days. The group rejects destabilizing actions and calls for dialogue, while Bolivia launches a military operation to clear the roads.
A government official within the orbit of Lower House President Raúl Latorre has experienced a significant salary increase, more than doubling his earnings in a short period, coinciding with his recent graduation. The official's pay rose from G. 2.8 million to over G. 29.5 million in less than a year, with a substantial jump occurring shortly before he officially registered his university degree.
A severe food shortage in Paraguay is driving up child malnutrition rates, with the government struggling to distribute aid and international organizations warning of a worsening humanitarian situation.
Diego Garzón, from Colombia's Ministry of Labor, argued that Paraguay should invest in technical training in areas such as data mining and engineering to absorb the demand for new jobs generated by artificial intelligence. The warning comes after the announcement of an AI center in partnership with Taiwan, which drew criticism over the lack of specialized professionals in the country.
The president of IPS, Isaías Ricardo Fretes, exposes the rot of corruption that unites politics, economic elite, and bureaucracy in Paraguay. While resignations of Cartist senators generate hope, the choice of a questioned prosecutor for judge reveals the system's resistance.
The country sees macroeconomic deterioration, with a structural deficit above 2% of GDP and exhaustion of growth engines: labor force and hydroelectric power. Experts point to the need for deep reforms and credible commitments.
Despite positive macroeconomic indicators, sectoral growth is uneven, with agro-exports and trade leading, while industry and construction advance slowly. The exchange rate and a possible minimum wage increase generate tensions.
From March 5 to 8, 2026, Berlin hosted the Gran Chaco Americano 360° Week, bringing together indigenous leaders, scientists, and entrepreneurs to showcase bioeconomy initiatives, forest conservation, and sustainable development from the second largest forest in South America. The event, part of the Impacto Verde project funded by the European Union, included panels, business rounds, and an immersive experience that attracted over a thousand visitors.
The article reflects on the influence of Machiavellian thought on Paraguayan politics, contrasting the vision of the selfish individual with the need for strong institutions and ethically formed citizens to sustain republican democracy.
On the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, the Church recalls Jesus' missionary mandate to the disciples and the promise of his constant presence until the end of time. The reflection, based on the Gospel of Matthew and quotes from Pope Francis and Saint Josemaría, invites the faithful to renew apostolic zeal and bring the Gospel to all areas of life.
Set to premiere on March 21 in Paraguayan theaters, the film directed by Jon Favreau bets on the relationship between Din Djarin and Grogu to win back audiences after years of divisions within the franchise.
Paraguayan musicians Stefano Pavetti and Derlis González Morel took part in a historic concert at the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music in the Vatican, performing Pergolesi's Stabat Mater. The event marks the growing Paraguayan cultural presence at the institution and reinforces Pavetti's goal of creating a choral conducting course in Paraguay.
This Sunday, Asunción offers a varied program including guided tours of the Palacio de López, boat rides, craft fairs, and theatrical performances, such as the farewell of the comedy 'Nunca estuve en Dublín' and the return of the Ab Ovo group.
The third edition of the Formando Lectores project, by ueno bank, delivered a library of 500 books in Spanish, Guaraní, and English to the Special School No. 2 John F. Kennedy, which serves students with disabilities. The initiative has guidance from the Ministry of Education and Sciences (MEC) and seeks to strengthen the reading habit in institutions across Paraguay.
Entire families, especially mothers and grandmothers, took part in the celebrations of the 215th anniversary of Paraguay's independence in the historic center of Asunción, blending culture, history, and leisure.
Last Sunday, social clubs in Asunción and surrounding areas held special events to honor mothers, featuring special menus, live music, and themed decorations.
Authorities from Presidente Franco and Puerto Iguazú have initiated efforts to form a binational Integration Committee, aiming to coordinate actions in health, transportation, migration, and consular assistance, reducing bureaucracy affecting citizens of both countries.
While the Brazilian side already has seven artificial beaches, Paraguay has only one. Regional workshops bring together 16 municipalities to consolidate a sustainable tourism corridor around the reservoir.
President Santiago Peña stated that at the end of his term in 2028, he will be a senator for life, contradicting the bill that allows former presidents to run for elective office. He also commented on the fake diploma scandal of Hernán Rivas and the case of former senator Erico Galeano.
Despite generating 70% of employment and moving US$ 2 billion per year, only 15% of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Paraguay have their own e-commerce channel. The national director of Entrepreneurship of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Romina Da Re, highlighted the opportunity for digitalization during the launch of the IV Expo eCommerce 2026, which takes place on May 21.
President Santiago Peña visited the restoration works of Avelino Martínez Avenue in San Lorenzo alongside Mayor Felipe Salomón and Senator Óscar Salomón, a gesture of political backing during the electoral pre-campaign. The project, executed by EDB Construções, had a final cost of G. 242.7 billion, with an overrun of G. 87.6 billion, justified by the Ministry of Public Works as price updates and work complexity. The visit occurs amid a strong internal dispute in the ANR, where Salomón seeks reelection against Édgar López, supported by Horacio Cartes. Engineer Enrique Díaz Benza, owner of the construction company, suggested renaming the avenue to General Andrés Rodríguez, but Peña said the decision lies with the population.
The body of Sacarías Silva, 65, was located in a swampy area in the Estero Camba community, district of San Juan Bautista, Ñeembucú Department. The man had been missing since the previous day and was recovered on horseback by family members and rescue teams.
A 42-year-old woman was arrested in Ypané, Central Department, after assaulting her husband and two daughters and attempting to set the residence on fire. She was intoxicated and threatened suicide. Police referred her to the Public Prosecutor's Office.
President Santiago Peña acknowledged that the monthly deficit of the Social Insurance Institute (IPS) exceeds US$ 20 million and suggested increasing revenue, reducing evasion, and improving spending efficiency, while IPS President Isaías Fretes announces cuts to obsolete medications and administrative reorganization.
For the second consecutive week, the Paraguayan Chamber of Deputies includes on its agenda a bill declaring bull runs (torín) as traditional and cultural heritage. The initiative, already approved by the Senate, faces strong opposition from the National Directorate for Animal Defense, Health and Welfare and civil organizations, which consider it incompatible with the law recognizing animals as sentient beings.
A group of feminist and human rights associations calls for the permanent release of Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi, who remains hospitalized in critical condition in Tehran after years of repression and medical neglect.
The humpback whale nicknamed 'Timmy', which spent weeks stranded in Germany and was released into the North Sea in early May, has been found dead near the Danish island of Anholt. Its identity was confirmed by a tracker recovered from the animal.
President Santiago Peña stated that Horacio Cartes will be the ANR presidential candidate in 2027, highlighting his recovery and energy. Peña asked Cartes to continue leading the party, calling him fundamental support of the government.
Gianina García Troche, partner of Sebastián Marset, asked prosecutor Deny Yoon Pak for the benefit of house arrest, citing the need to be close to her children. The request was made during her indictment hearing on May 12, and the prosecutor said he will consult Judge Rosarito Montanía.
President Santiago Peña, during an event in San Lorenzo, asked the media to treat corruption cases involving opposition members and those of fellow Colorado Party members, such as Erico Galeano and Hernán Rivas, with the same rigor. Peña avoided detailing the proceedings and highlighted the role of ANEAES in controlling university degrees.
Three young people on a motorcycle violently collided with a curb in the San Rafael neighborhood of Luque. Two died and one was seriously injured. The case is under police investigation.
President Santiago Peña toured the construction site of Avenida Avelino Martínez in San Lorenzo this Saturday (16) and highlighted that the intervention prioritizes deep drainage and rigid pavement, after 40 years of chronic flooding and deterioration problems.
Uruguayan Gianina García Troche, partner of drug trafficker Sebastián Marset, was heard for the second time by the Paraguayan Public Ministry on May 12 at the Emboscada women's prison. The interrogation was conducted by prosecutor Deny Yoon Pak and takes place on the eve of the deadline for the conclusion of the investigation, which expires on May 20.
A dense fog covered Asunción and cities of the Central Department on Saturday morning, reducing visibility and affecting ground and air traffic. The Director of Meteorology, Eduardo Mingo, explained that the phenomenon is called fog when visibility is less than one kilometer, and mist when it is greater. The Silvio Pettirossi Airport in Luque recorded low visibility, but no flights were canceled, according to Dinac.
The Directorate of Meteorology of Paraguay forecasts a Saturday (16) with temperatures between 22°C and 27°C, scattered rain and electrical storms, especially in the north and east of the country. There is a risk of hail and winds up to 80 km/h. Instability should persist on Sunday, with a sharp drop in temperatures starting Monday.
The president of the Paraguayan Congress, Basilio "Bachi" Núñez, expressed support for opposition Senator Eduardo Nakayama's proposal to audit all public employees who obtained benefits with suspected university degrees. The initiative follows scandals involving former Colorado Party senators Hernán Rivas and Erico Galeano, and aims to combat corruption and influence peddling in the public sector.
The strong appreciation of the guarani against the dollar is squeezing profits for exporters and sectors such as construction and real estate, leading to calls for intervention and a reassessment of projects, according to analysts and trade associations.
Leaders of Uruguay's meatpacking industry have expressed support for maintaining foot-and-mouth disease vaccination, a position that aligns with Paraguay's productive sector, which rejects the Senacsa's intention to suspend immunization before 2030.
Lists of employees at the binational hydroelectric plant reveal that at least 109 people earn more than President Santiago Peña, including relatives of influential politicians.
The Autos do Oeste dealership, owned by Nesmar SRL and located in Villa Elisa, is under investigation for a network of fraud in vehicle sales. The company changed its corporate name and trade name every two months, using names such as Sagitario Motors and Punta del Este, to attract victims with ads of low prices and immediate delivery, but the contracts stipulated delivery only after five years. More than 40 complaints have been registered since October 2025.
The building of the former Hotel Embajador, which was the home of Paraguay's only female procer, Juana María de Lara, is undergoing restoration to become a boutique hotel. The private initiative also plans to recover the former Librería Castelar, signaling a revitalization movement in the capital's center.
The pre-campaign for municipal elections in San Lorenzo, Paraguay, is marked by an intense internal dispute within the Colorado Party, with two groups from the Honor Colorado movement running for mayor. On one side, current mayor Felipe Salomão seeks reelection; on the other, Édgar López, president of Seccional N°2, tries to consolidate his candidacy with strong financial investment and support from political figures such as Horacio Cartes and Hugo Velázquez. The liberal opposition is also mobilizing, with articulations among different forces to define a single candidacy.
Restoration works on historic buildings, such as the Cooperativa de las Fuerzas Armadas and the Palacete Duarte, signal the revitalization of Asunción's microcenter, driven by municipal tax incentives.
Playful and educational campaigns from the CUIDA Chagas project, featuring theater, comic books, and games, reach thousands of students in five Paraguayan districts during the disease awareness month.
The promissory note mafia, a scam scheme that has lasted two years, remains unpunished. Victims, mostly public employees, denounce judicial delays and new types of scams, such as the sale of promissory notes from closed companies and the non-return of documents after debt settlement. Senators and the mayor of Ciudad del Este met with those affected, but the justice system has not advanced.
The Central Bank of Paraguay (BCP) celebrates April inflation at 2.3%, below the 4% target, but analyst Alejo García argues the decline is artificial, driven by a 23% appreciation of the guarani against the dollar since July 2025, not by effective monetary policy. García points to flaws in the BCP's toolkit, such as the lack of high-frequency open market operations and an 'inverted corridor' of rates, indicating structural dysfunctions.
The Association of Christian Entrepreneurs (ADEC) will hold its International Congress in June, with the theme of Fair Play applied to the business world. The event seeks to promote fair dealings and businesses with a 'human face', aligned with the Social Doctrine of the Church and the Year of the Common Good proclaimed by the Paraguayan Episcopal Conference for 2026.
Paraguay's Magistrates Council passed over prosecutor Deny Yoon Pak, who led the mega-operation A Ultranza against drug trafficking, and chose Aldo Cantero, known as 'Aldo Canta 50' for allegedly negotiating cases, to join the shortlist for judge. The decision drew criticism from legal experts and accusations that the body prioritizes political loyalties over merit.
Tatiana Marset, sister of drug trafficker Sebastián Marset, was hospitalized in Santa Cruz for suspected pancreatitis but diagnosed with hepatitis A and returned to Palmasola prison.
Hundreds of tourists and shoppers flocked to Ciudad del Este on Mother's Day, undeterred by cold and rain, as family outings replaced typical bulk buying, with perfumes, video game consoles, and electronics leading sales.
Mateo Sobode Chiqueno's experimental film 'Ujirei' will be shown Saturday at Museo del Barro in Asunción, followed by a discussion with the Ayoreo documentarian.
A debate over suspending Paraguay’s May military parade reveals tensions between national identity, globalism, and real sovereignty threats, according to Ultima Hora.
A male body was spotted floating in the Paraná River near Domingo Martínez de Irala, Alto Paraná, but strong currents dragged it into deeper water before authorities could recover it, according to police reports.
Dogs, both pets and military-trained, were the stars of Paraguay's 215th Independence Day events in Asunción, with the Jagua Patriota parade and a military canine unit drawing crowds on May 14.
Two people on a motorcycle, using a food-delivery backpack as a disguise, snatched a woman's cellphone while she waited at a bus stop in Luque, Paraguay. The incident was captured on CCTV, and police are investigating.
The city of Pedro Juan Caballero, in the department of Amambay, was the scene of three notable events in May 2026: a fire that destroyed the home of an 85-year-old woman, the death of the city's oldest woman at age 110, and the shooting murder of a Brazilian mechanic, in a case treated as possible contract killing.
Thousands flocked to Asunción's historic center on May 15 for the 215th anniversary of Paraguay's independence, with parades, food fairs, museum tours, and a pet parade.
A man identified as Juan Arzamendia, reportedly intoxicated, was arrested early Friday after breaking into the 8th Company of the Volunteer Fire Corps in Capiatá, causing damage to the station and a volunteer's vehicle. He claimed to be a military member and said he would cover the costs.
Rodrigo Calonga, an actor from Pedro Juan Caballero, received a distinction from the Paraguayan consulate in Rio de Janeiro for his artistic trajectory and promotion of Paraguayan culture abroad.
Apostala, official sponsor of Paraguay's national football team, has unveiled a campaign titled 'Creer o Creer' featuring former star Salvador Cabañas and a specially designed coin that always lands on the Albirroja side, symbolizing absolute belief in the team.
Over 120,000 people filled Asunción’s Historic Center on May 14-15, 2026, for cultural events, concerts, and the Feria Palmear, marking Paraguay’s 215th Independence Day with music, gastronomy, and family activities.
Paraguay's Mother's Day on Friday, May 15, 2026, will bring fresh morning temperatures, afternoon highs of 21–25°C, mostly cloudy skies, and scattered showers with possible thunderstorms in the north and east, according to the Dirección de Meteorología e Hidrología (DMH).
On Mother's Day, a look at the invisible economic contribution of Paraguayan mothers, who dedicate 61% of their time to unpaid care work, and a historic court decision that for the first time factored in the 'cost of upbringing' when setting child support.
The Entidad Binacional Yacyretá (EBY) has resolved its financial contingency, resumed works and supplier payments, and is advancing the Aña Cuá project, according to its financial chief. An operational agreement with Argentina and cost-cutting measures have stabilized cash flow, but the lack of a definitive tariff remains a structural challenge.
The Paraguayan Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) announced temporary traffic detours on Silvio Pettirossi Avenue from May 16 to 26, 2026, as part of the Corredor Vial Las Residentas project. The detours affect the stretch between Elizardo Aquino and Ñu Guasu avenues due to the construction of foundation heads for a future viaduct aimed at reducing congestion on a key access route to Asunción.
According to data from Paraguay's National Institute of Statistics (INE) reported by Ultima Hora, 876,000 mothers are employed, making up 25.6% of the workforce. However, they face significant wage gaps, high informality, and workplace prejudices, especially against pregnant women and mothers of young children.
To achieve its goal of doubling GDP by 2035, Paraguay must add roughly 7,000 megawatts of new power—equivalent to half of Itaipu's capacity—or risk an energy bottleneck, according to a study by the Industrial Union of Paraguay (UIP) and projections from the national electricity authority ANDE.
A record seizure of 50,000 ecstasy pills in Fernando de la Mora in March 2026 underscores rising synthetic drug use among young Paraguayans, with Ciudad del Este emerging as a consumption hotspot.
During the 215th anniversary of Paraguay's independence in Ciudad del Este, Bishop Pedro Collar urged citizens and authorities to prioritize the common good, combat corruption, and strengthen solidarity. The event featured a parade with over 60 institutions.
The National Union of Retirees of Paraguay (UNJPy) staged a protest outside the IPS headquarters, calling for the full replacement of the Administrative Council while supporting new president Dr. Isaías Fretes. They criticize opaque accounting and demand expert financial management of pension reserves.
The Association of Oncological Patients of the Social Security Institute (Apodips) has formally requested that IPS President Dr. Isaías Ricardo Fretes declare an institutional health emergency, citing severe shortages of medicines, long waiting lists, and systemic failures. The call comes as Paraguay's Chamber of Deputies has given preliminary approval to a bill for a broader emergency declaration at the institute.
Paraguay opposition deputy Raúl Benítez and lawyer Federico Legal criticized cartista lawmakers Rocío Abed and Yamil Esgaib for participating in a transparency event on May 20, citing their consistent rejection of information requests and Esgaib's past aggression toward journalists.
Paraguay's state electricity utility ANDE is executing a $820 million master plan to modernize transmission lines, expand capacity in the Chaco region, and digitize services, with financing from the IDB and Taiwan.
Paraguay's Magistracy Council voted 7-1 to include prosecutor Aldo Cantero in a shortlist for a judicial post, despite his record of case dismissals, over colleague Deny Yoon Pak, who led major anti-drug operations. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from politicians and legal professionals.
A legal battle over two tugboats leads to a complaint against prosecutor Aldo Cantero, who is accused of fast-tracking an indictment without evidence. Cantero defends his actions, stating the case is now headed to trial.
On Mother's Day 2026, a reflection on the state of motherhood in Paraguay highlights expanded legal protections for mothers and fathers, a sharp decline in birth rates, persistent teenage pregnancies, and evolving family structures. The article from Ultima Hora notes both progress and challenges, including potential labor market pitfalls and the influence of antinatalist trends.
The historic Paraguayan humor-music group Ab Ovo is back with three performances of their new show 'Reconexión & Reintegro' at the Teatro del Hotel Guaraní, featuring satire, music, and a special guest host.
Paraguayan haute couture designer Ati Troche balances family and career, working alongside her daughter Ernestina, who follows in her footsteps.
Paraguayan model, entrepreneur, and coach Paola Hermann reflects on raising her children, Luca and Carla, and the influence she has had on her daughter's career in fashion.
Drawing on expert analysis and cultural history, this article explores the profound psychological impact of the maternal bond, the origins of the saying 'Madre hay una sola,' and the lasting influence of mothers on adult identity and emotional health.
In an interview with Última Hora, Paraguayan communicator and actress Pelusa Rubin shares her journey as a mother of four and grandmother, emphasizing the challenges and joys of balancing career and family.
Paraguayan wedding planner Desirée Grillón, a pioneer in event organization, reflects on balancing her demanding career with raising three sons, emphasizing that her children remain her top priority despite her busy schedule.
Over 150 families in Asunción's Republicano and Roberto L. Petit neighborhoods live in fear of another overflow of the Ferreira Creek, which flooded on May 3, 2026. Residents have been demanding protective works for over a decade, with a house and a school at imminent risk. The municipality has referred the case to the MOPC, but administrative delays persist, according to neighbors.
Aina Clotet's debut film, 'Viva,' premiered at the Cannes Film Festival's Semaine de la Critique, presenting a comedic yet profound look at a 40-year-old scientist's pursuit of life and personal reinvention after overcoming breast cancer. The film, set against the backdrop of an extreme drought in Catalonia, uses humor to tackle themes of mental health, love, and the search for inner strength.
Two students from Colegio San José in Ciudad del Este engaged in a physical altercation during a parade commemorating Paraguay's 215th Independence Day. The school issued a statement acknowledging the incident and noting that one student has a neurodevelopmental condition.
Cities including Caacupé, Pilar, Villarrica, and towns in Misiones and the Chaco region held civic-military parades on May 14-15, 2026, marking the 215th anniversary of Paraguay's independence. Students, teachers, police, and military personnel participated, with local officials emphasizing patriotism and community commitment.
President Santiago Peña hosted controversial Silicon Valley billionaire Peter Thiel and Crusoe AI president Cully Cavness at Mburuvicha Róga. Chief of Staff Javier Giménez said the government welcomes investors regardless of personal views, while Thiel has previously questioned democracy. The meetings focus on AI, energy, and fintech investment opportunities in Paraguay.
A forensic autopsy has confirmed that 26-year-old Mariza Paola Balbuena Medina died from severe blunt force trauma to the head, ruling out sharp weapons. Her partner, Juan Antonio González, who has a prior domestic violence record and an outstanding arrest warrant, is the prime suspect in what authorities are investigating as a femicide.
President Santiago Peña presided over the annual military parade along the Costanera Norte in Asunción on May 14, 2026, as Paraguay celebrated 215 years of independence. The event featured 3,000 troops, including 2,400 military personnel and 600 police officers, along with aircraft displays and armored vehicles.
A new artificial intelligence trend creating hyper-realistic videos of people in packed stadiums has gone viral in Paraguay, while the band Korn returned to the country after 13 years with a show at the Jockey Club.
As Mother's Day approaches, tributes emerge from Paraguay, highlighting familial bonds and artistic traditions. Nadia Ferreira's sister, Eli, is praised as a "favorite model" by their mother, Ludy Ferreira, while in Piribebuy, a master artisan and her daughter showcase the generational transmission of the ancestral poncho de 60 listas craft.
Paraguay's digital payment consumption rose 24% in the first four months of 2026, driven by everyday purchases via QR and mobile phones, with debit cards outpacing credit and supermarkets accounting for 28% of transactions.
President Santiago Peña, speaking after Paraguay's Independence Day Tedeum, touted the country's economic growth but lamented that it is more recognized internationally than domestically. He acknowledged pending work on transparency, job creation, and investment, and reiterated that a tax reform will not occur during his term.
Korn performed at Jockey Club in Asunción on May 13, 2026, delivering a nostalgic set including hits like 'Blind' and 'Freak on a Leash,' with Jonathan Davis's bagpipe solo as a highlight.
Tania Dimas, a 26-year-old delivery worker from Encarnación, won Telebingo Triple's third 'Un Mundo de Premios' on April 26, 2026, taking home G. 50 million in cash, a car, a motorcycle, and appliances. She decided to give most of the prizes to her mother, Ángela Miranda, as an early Mother's Day gift.
PAM Hotels is expanding its offerings for Paraguayan travelers, reporting a 50% increase in visitors to the Caribbean over two years. The chain highlights personalized travel, destination weddings, and new properties like AVA Resort Cancun and a future UNICO hotel in Jamaica.
US President Donald Trump said he discussed Taiwan with Chinese President Xi Jinping during their summit in Beijing but made no commitments. He will decide on arms sales to Taiwan soon. The meeting reflects broader US-China rivalry and economic pressures.
An analysis by Ultima Hora warns that Paraguay must choose between extractivist data center projects and value-added PtX industries, arguing that the latter offer greater economic and social returns per unit of energy consumed.
Zappy, a Paraguayan-developed dropselling platform, was launched in Asunción. Backed by entrepreneur Ivar Sosa, it allows vendors to sell without holding inventory, with the supplier handling delivery.
The district of Obligado, known as the National Capital of Cooperativism, will celebrate its 114th foundation anniversary on May 25 with sports, cultural, religious and civic events throughout the month.
Paraguay's Supreme Court unanimously rejected a preventive habeas corpus filed by former senator Erico Galeano, who faces a 13-year prison sentence. The ruling clears the way for potential pretrial detention, while Galeano denies ties to drug trafficker Sebastián Marset and criticizes President Santiago Peña.
President Santiago Peña and Housing Minister Juan Carlos Baruja delivered 604 homes in Villa Hayes, with a focus on indigenous communities. Baruja touted the government's housing record amid speculation about his political future.
Paraguayan ambassador to the US, Gustavo Leite, says he helped negotiate a state-backed subsidy for a direct Asunción-Miami flight, but the head of Dinac denies the agency can offer such incentives.
Paraguay's maquiladora sector exported USD 471 million in the first four months of 2026, up USD 83 million year-on-year, driven by autoparts, food, clothing, and aluminum. The industry now employs 35,357 people, with 45% women, and 24 new programs approved in April alone.
Paraguay's FEPY announces EmprendeTECH, a free event on June 5, 2026, featuring Google for Education and Oracle Next Education to boost AI and digital transformation for micro, small, and medium enterprises.
The Asunción Stock Exchange (BVA) saw a 1% drop in trading volume in the first four months of 2026 compared to the same period last year, driven by bank liquidity recovery and unclear interest rate trends, according to broker Cadiem and reported by Ultima Hora.
Paraguay's government has unveiled an ambitious plan, dubbed 'Paraguay 2X', to double the country's GDP to $84 billion within a decade by following the rapid industrialization model of Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea. The strategy, led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC), includes 400 specific actions, 13 strategic sectors, and a joint artificial intelligence center with Taiwan.
Attorney Osvaldo Granada Salaberry told Ultima Hora that the power scheme once run by former JEM president Óscar González Daher continues to operate in the Consejo de la Magistratura, citing the recent election of Aldo Cantero as an example.
A Paraguayan judge has definitively dismissed charges against former Dinac president Edgar Melgarejo and four others in the 'tapabocas de oro' scandal, complying with a 2024 appellate court decision that annulled the prosecution's case. The Supreme Court later rejected the prosecution's final appeal.
Lawyer and former electoral judge Jorge Rolón Luna harshly criticized the Paraguayan justice system, calling it 'incorrigible' after Aldo Cantero was included in a shortlist for a criminal court judge position in Asunción. Rolón Luna, who has previously denounced criminal structures within the judiciary, pointed to Cantero’s career and a domestic violence complaint against him as reasons for concern.
Senator Édgar López acknowledged that political parties negotiate and control the selection of judges, prosecutors, and appellate judges in Paraguay's Consejo de la Magistratura, undermining merit-based appointments.
Paraguay’s Independence Day military parade on Thursday will showcase five US-donated Safe Boat patrol boats and four Brazilian Super Tucano aircraft, among other equipment. The parade will feature a reduced contingent of 3,000 troops due to security operations against the EPP, according to Defense Minister Óscar González.
Former Paraguayan deputy and ex-president of the Magistrates' Impeachment Jury (JEM), Orlando Arévalo, suspended his scheduled testimony before prosecutor Eugenio Ocampos in a fraud investigation involving G. 130 million. His defense requested the case file, and a new date will be set.
Paraguay's Attorney General Emiliano Rolón Fernández appeared before the Chamber of Deputies to request a budget increase to double the number of prosecutors from 350 to 700, citing insufficient resources to meet citizen demand. The request comes after the Senate approved only a fraction of the needed funds.
Emiliano Rolón, Paraguay's attorney general, told lawmakers that his CV erroneously listed him as coordinator of Universidad Sudamericana due to a transcription and printing mistake. He acknowledged teaching there in 2013 but denied any directorial role.
Paraguay's ambassador to the US, Gustavo Leite, disclosed that the government offered American Airlines $5 million in subsidies for the Asunción-Miami route, a deal that fell through. After a subsequent agreement with GOL also stalled, Senator Rafael Filizzola accused President Peña and Leite of secret negotiations, while Dinac denied having budget authority for such payments.
Attorney Noelia Núñez has filed an action before Paraguay's Supreme Court seeking to reinstate a 12-year prison sentence for Axel Fabián López, convicted of sexually abusing a former beauty queen in 2017. The Appeals Chamber annulled the conviction and ordered a third trial, citing a missing apostille on a digital medical certificate. Núñez denounces institutional violence and revictimization.
A former justice minister and a senator have openly criticized the Council of the Magistrature for selecting prosecutor Aldo Cantero for a judgeship, alleging political favors and a 'rotten justice system.' The council's vote favored Cantero over prosecutor Deny Yoon Pak, who has led major anti-narcotics cases.
Carlos Miguel Viveros Cabral, a precandidate for councilor in Asunción, has filed a cassation appeal with the Supreme Court's Criminal Chamber, seeking to overturn an appellate ruling that upheld his conviction for a contractual dispute. The defense argues due process violations and improper criminalization of a civil matter.
Jaime Franco, a notorious Paraguayan narcotrafficker, has been sentenced to 8 years in prison for laundering money from drug trafficking, according to a report by Ultima Hora.
According to an investigation by Ultima Hora, 109 employees of the Itaipú Binational entity earn more than President Santiago Peña, with some receiving four times his salary. The report highlights cases of double salaries for government officials serving as Itaipú councilors and notes opacity in payroll disclosures.
The Pozuelo Natural Reserve in Canindeyú, Paraguay, spans 5,521 hectares of Atlantic Forest and wetlands, safeguarding biodiversity and the Itaipú reservoir. Created in 2014 by Itaipú Binacional, it serves as a biological corridor and research hub, according to Ultima Hora.
In an exclusive interview with Ultima Hora, Paraguay's first cardinal, Monsignor Adalberto Martínez, reflects on his journey from economics student to the nation's highest-ranking Catholic leader, emphasizing that his many renunciations have been acts of offering rather than loss.
Paraguay’s National Tourism Secretariat (Senatur) has installed warm lighting in the historic San Jerónimo neighborhood of Asunción, transforming its narrow streets and iconic oratory into an inviting nighttime attraction. The project, which includes facade restoration and mural initiatives, seeks to preserve cultural identity while drawing more visitors after dark.