Families in white clothing walked through the main streets of Antón, a district in Panama’s Coclé province, carrying a message of faith, unity and hope. The Anton peace march, organized by the San Juan Bautista Parish and headed by Father Saúl Gaona, came after several violent incidents shook the community, including the murder of a young female soccer player who had represented her country at the national level.
A Promising Soccer Career Cut Short
Ivis Ubarte Kirchman, known locally as “La Rosadita,” was only 23 years old when she was killed on the night of Tuesday, August 11, inside her home in the El Ciruelito sector of Antón Cabecera. She had made a name for herself in Panama’s Women’s Football League and had earned a call-up to the senior national team. Her death stunned neighbors and teammates alike, turning a local tragedy into a catalyst for the community’s public plea for peace.
Days earlier, a separate shooting at an entertainment venue left a woman dead and three men wounded. Those injured were taken to medical centers for treatment. Police have not released the victims’ full identities in that case, but they say the two incidents may be connected. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence as residents demand answers and an end to the bloodshed.
Anton Peace March Highlights Family and Faith
The Anton peace march brought together people of all ages, many dressed entirely in white. Participants walked along the district’s main roads, pausing to pray and reflect on the need to restore peaceful coexistence. Organizers from the parish said the event was not just a protest but a spiritual response to the fear that has gripped the area.
Father Saúl Gaona emphasized that the violence reflects a deeper spiritual crisis.
“Everything we are experiencing shows a lack of God in the heart. It is very important for parents to accompany their children, to know where our children are, that there are rules and regulations at home” [Translated from Spanish]
Teodolinda Carranza, a mother who joined the march, echoed that call for stronger parenting.
“It is necessary for the family to guide their children toward good manners and the practice of good values that are being lost” [Translated from Spanish]
Police Link Two Recent Homicides in Antón
According to police information, the killing of Ubarte and the earlier shooting at the entertainment center are believed to be
. Authorities have not disclosed a motive, but they confirmed that investigations remain active. The district of Antón, known for its agricultural traditions and tight-knit communities, has rarely experienced this level of violence, making the recent events especially alarming for longtime residents.
Yerín Mendoza, another participant in the march, summed up the community’s identity and frustration.
“Antón wants peace, Antón is a town of tradition and good people” [Translated from Spanish]
Her words reflected a shared belief that the violence does not represent the true character of Antón. Residents said they want to recover the respect, calm and neighborly trust that once defined daily life in the district.
What Comes Next for Antón’s Safety
The parish-led demonstration ended with a renewed commitment from community members to watch over young people and rebuild family structures. Father Gaona’s message centered on parental involvement, setting boundaries at home and knowing where children are at all times. He argued that these small acts of discipline can help prevent future tragedies.
Local leaders and residents hope the Anton peace march marks a turning point. While police pursue their investigation into the two connected homicides, the community is calling for a broader cultural shift. The march itself, with its white clothing and prayers, served as both a memorial for the victims and a public declaration that Antón will not accept violence as its new normal.
As the investigation continues, the people of Antón are asking for more than just arrests. They want a return to the peaceful routines that made their district a place where families felt safe. The Anton peace march, rooted in faith and collective responsibility, may be the first step toward that healing.