Año says NPA leader’s death further weakens insurgents

MANILA – National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año on Friday called the neutralization of ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leader Myrna Sularte a “decisive blow” against the weakening communist insurgents.

Sularte (a.k.a. Maria Malaya) was secretary of the NPA’s Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee. She was killed in an encounter with government troops in Barangay Pianing, Butuan City on Feb. 12.

“Sularte played a central role in orchestrating the group’s decades-long campaign of violence, deception, and exploitation, particularly in Mindanao. Her demise is a major victory for peace and security, bringing long-overdue justice to countless innocent Filipinos who suffered at the hands of the CTGs (communist terrorist groups),” Año said in a statement.

The NSA said Sularte’s neutralization is a “turning point” as it serves as a reminder that there is no place for armed struggle in a democratic society.

Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division said government troops engaged the rebels twice on Wednesday, with the second clash in the afternoon resulting in Sularte’s death.

Her husband and fellow NPA leader, Jorge Madlos (a.k.a. Ka Oris), was killed in Bukidnon in October 2021.

Sularte faced multiple criminal charges, including rebellion, aggravated arson, robbery with double homicide, kidnapping and murder.

Año urged all remaining NPA rebels to surrender and help the government in nation-building, while commending the Philippine Army for its efforts.

“This success is testament to the solid commitment of our security forces, who continue to risk their lives to protect our people and secure our nation’s future. Their dedication ensures that communities once plagued by insurgent violence can now look forward to genuine peace and development,” he added.

Año likewise hailed the whole-of-nation approach exemplified by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), which has played a major role in weakening the communist insurgency in the country since its formation in December 2018 through Executive Order No. 70 signed by former president Rodrigo R. Duterte.

“Through its programs aimed at addressing the root causes of insurgency – poverty, lack of opportunities, and misinformation, the task force has played a crucial role in weakening CTG’s influence and dismantling its support networks,” he added.

Año also said the government is committed to ensuring that former conflict zones are transformed into centers of progress, reconciliation and sustainable peace. — Priam Nepomuceno   (PNA)