National Security Adviser Declares NPA Leader’s Death a Major Setback for Insurgents

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año has described the elimination of high-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leader Myrna Sularte as a significant setback for the faltering communist insurgency. Sularte, also known as Maria Malaya, served as the secretary of the NPA’s Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee until her death during a confrontation with government forces in Barangay Pianing, Butuan City on February 12.
Año emphasized Sularte’s pivotal role in directing the NPA’s long-standing campaign of violence, deceit, and exploitation, especially in Mindanao. He stated that her death marks a crucial victory for peace and security, delivering justice to the many innocent Filipinos affected by the actions of communist terrorist groups (CTGs). He further described her neutralization as a turning point, underscoring that armed struggle has no place in a democratic society.
The Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division reported that government troops clashed with the rebels twice on the day of the incident, with the second engagement in the afternoon leading to Sularte’s demise. Her husband and fellow NPA leader, Jorge Madlos, known as Ka Oris, was killed in Bukidnon in October 2021. Sularte herself was facing numerous criminal charges, including rebellion, aggravated arson, robbery with double homicide, kidnapping, and murder.
Año called on the remaining NPA rebels to lay down their arms and contribute to nation-building, while praising the Philippine Army for their dedication. He highlighted the success as a reflection of the security forces’ unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation and its people, paving the way for peace and development in previously troubled areas.
Año also commended the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) for its role in weakening the insurgency through a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of unrest, such as poverty, lack of opportunities, and misinformation. He stressed the government’s commitment to transforming former conflict zones into hubs of progress, reconciliation, and sustainable peace.
Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., the executive director of NTF-ELCAC, echoed the government’s call for remaining NPA members to abandon their cause and take advantage of reintegration programs, including the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, which offers a range of benefits to former rebels. Torres emphasized the government’s readiness to help them rebuild their lives, while warning that continued acts of fear and destruction would not be tolerated.