Government troops killed a high-ranking female rebel in daylong encounters in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte on Wednesday, the military said.
The Philippine Army’s 901st Infantry Brigade posted on social media that Myrna Sularte, alias “Maria Malaya,” a top leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Caraga, was neutralized during clashes in Barangay Pianing on February 12.
The operation followed a series of clashes that began earlier in the morning, at 6:10 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., culminating in the capture of several items and equipment owned by the rebel group. The final encounter in the afternoon led to the death of Sularte, the military said.
According to the Philippine Army, the slain rebel is the widow of the late Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos, a prominent NPA figure, who was killed in October 2021 in an encounter against government forces in Bukidnon.
“The death of Myrna Sularte signifies a measure of justice for the countless victims who have endured unimaginable sufferings due to her deceitful manipulations and ruthless actions,” Brig. Gen. Arsenio Sadural, commander of the 901st Brigade, said.
“This development not only brings closure to those victims but also serves as a powerful reminder of our unwavering commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect the innocent from the atrocities perpetrated by the CTGs (communist-terrorist groups)”, he added.
Sularte is one of the most wanted NPA leaders in the country. She faced multiple criminal charges, including rebellion, murder, multiple murder, and frustrated murder, among others.