“With the fraud investigation of that institution’s bankruptcy, many other parallel, perhaps even more significant, investigations came to life,” says Rodríguez. “It’s like a chain, one thing leading to another. An investigation that started out with economic overtones turned out to have major political repercussions,” he explained. Corruption, embezzlement, illegal appointments, phony bids, and nepotism were some of the many issues that have subsequently been addressed on the pages of La Prensa.

Investigative work, in Rodríguez’s opinion, stems from a responsibility that goes beyond the mere act of reporting. “We have to be objective judges of the facts, especially if the government allows accusations to be made. It is a major contribution for the country. Methods of corruption are now more refined and this requires greater commitment and greater specialization.”

Rodríguez has participated in high-level investigations, both in Panama and abroad, that have had serious consequences. “We make a lot of enemies, but it’s a risk that we have to take. Because, who protects us? The level of commitment goes beyond protecting our own physical well-being,” he acknowledges. Although he has had butterflies in his stomach more than once because of something he has published, Rodríguez does not regret anything he has written or done.

At first, Rodríguez and his colleagues knew very little of the techniques of investigative journalism. Gradually, La Prensa took advantage of training courses and became a reference point for serious investigative reporting. Along the way Rodríguez developed a reporter’s nose for things that don’t seem quite right, even when appearances are normal. Absence says much more than presence, and common sense is often his best guide.

Although many journalists have been killed in other countries for this kind of journalism, Rodríguez claims which this is not a problem in Panama, at least not now. “Sure, we’ve had threats, judgments and civil and criminal complaints, but nothing more serious,” says Rodríguez. “I have been afraid, but it’s part of the job.”

An occupation that relies, in large measure, on good sources: Rodríguez’s network of contacts is key to his success. “Sources give us information anonymously,” he indicates. “Civil or criminal proceedings where we have been victimized almost always revolve around the issue of revealing the sources. To date, we have not revealed any and this has benefited us a great deal. The law says that journalists are not obligated to reveal the identity of their sources, but we are responsible for what we say.”