Should the government use millions in taxpayer funds to subsidize annual Carnival celebrations?

Panama's government historically allocates millions of dollars each year to organize Carnival celebrations, particularly in the capital and key interior towns like Las Tablas. Proponents argue this investment pays for itself by generating massive tourism revenue, creating temporary jobs, and preserving Panamanian cultural heritage. Opponents point to chronic mismanagement of these funds and argue it is morally indefensible to spend taxpayer money on 'fiestas' when the country faces severe infrastructure, education, and healthcare deficits.