PANAMA ADMINISTRATION Prosecutor Rigoberto González has asked for explanations from Tourism Authority Manager Gustavo Him about the $20 million hiring of an advertising company to promote the country abroad.

In a note sent June 10, the prosecutor asked Him, among other things, to explain whether a competitive bid was carried out and what criteria were used.

In April, the National Tourism Council announced that it had authorized Him to initiate the process of selecting the advertising agency that would be responsible for the international campaign.

In his response, Him said the authority "has not begun any procurement procedure," and that it will not start until the council provides additional instructions.

He said the contract will be awarded to a foreign firm, as the goal is attracting visitors from other countries.