Additional United States naval forces occupy both Colón and Panama City and guard the railroad to ensure uninterrupted transit until Colombian forces land  to protect the railroad.

The new constitution of 1886 establishes the Republic of Colombia as a unitary state; departments are distinctly subordinate to the central government, and Panama i singled out as subject to the direct authority of the government.

The United States consul general reports that three-quarters of the Panamanians want independence from Colombia and will revolt if they can get arms and be sure of freedom from United States intervention.