In a significant development for Northeastern Mindanao, the Philippine Army announced that the recent death of a prominent New People’s Army (NPA) leader is expected to catalyze economic advancement in the region. Lt. Gen. Luis Rex Bergante, who leads the Eastern Mindanao Command, highlighted the potential for growth following the demise of Myrna Sularte, a key NPA figure, during a ceremony in Cagayan de Oro City.
Bergante emphasized the opportunity to enhance tourism in Eastern Mindanao, pointing out that areas once used as NPA hideouts could be transformed into attractive tourist destinations. He believes that Sularte’s death will lead to substantial improvements in rural communities, fostering a more stable environment conducive to economic development.
Sularte, who was the widow of former top NPA leader Jorge Madlos, was killed on February 12 in an encounter in Sitio Tugalahi, Barangay Pianing, Butuan City. Her husband, Madlos, had been killed earlier on October 30, 2021, in Bukidnon. The couple had long been involved in leading NPA activities across Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.
During the same event, Bergante honored 18 soldiers from the Army’s 901st Infantry Brigade with Gold Cross Medals for their role in the operation that led to Sularte’s neutralization. The ceremony underscored the military’s commitment to combating insurgency and promoting peace and development in the region.