MYRNA Sularte, the highest-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) official in Mindanao and known by her nom de guerre Maria Malaya, was killed in a gun battle with government forces in Butuan City on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.
The military confirmed the death on Thursday, February 13, identifying the body through a birthmark, a previous gunshot wound scar, and identification by her sister and former comrades.
Military intelligence had tracked Malaya’s movements for weeks, culminating in the encounter in Sitio Imelda, Barangay Pianing, Butuan City. Brigadier General Arsenio Sadural, commander of the Army’s 901st Infantry Brigade, confirmed the operation, stating that former rebels under Malaya’s command also assisted in her identification.
The distinctive features cited included a scar from a November 2023 encounter and missing front teeth.
Malaya, the widow of slain NPA leader Jorge Madlos (Ka Oris), had evaded capture for three years, moving across Caraga and other Mindanao regions.
She was the subject of a P5.6-million reward, although Brigadier General Sadural declined to comment further on this, citing respect for her family. Malaya faced numerous criminal charges, including rebellion and multiple counts of murder.
The military had been tracking Malaya’s group since January 29 in the Butuan area. Her death marks a significant blow to the CPP-NPA in northeastern Mindanao.
metrosundaily
