A NEW People’s Army (NPA) member, one of the security details of slain top leader Myrna Sularte in Northeastern Mindanao, surrendered to the 29th Infantry Battalion in Purok 4, Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, on Thursday, April 3, 2025.
The military identified the NPA member as alias Dexter, part of an NPA unit primarily operating in the Caraga region.
Upon surrendering, Carbonilla also yielded two high-powered firearms: an M16 rifle and a 7.62mm AKCZ rifle.
Lieutenant Colonel Mark S. Tabon, commanding officer of the 29IB, said Dexter was involved in the security detail of Sularte, also known as Maria Malaya, from the third quarter of 2024 until her death in February of this year.
He added that Sularte’s death demoralized the remaining members of her group, leading to their surrender to the government.
Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr. said the series of NPA surrenders highlights the 4ID’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and development in vulnerable areas and assisting former NPA members in returning to normal lives.
“The NPA in the region is now significantly weakened. Following the neutralization of their key leaders, the group’s structure has been severely impacted, resulting in the mass surrender of their members,” Anayron said.
“Furthermore, the surrenderers’ statements reflected the hardships they endured in the mountains and their strong desire to reunite with their families and live peacefully. We will continue to intensify our efforts to ensure the continued degradation of the NPA’s influence while prioritizing the safety of vulnerable communities affected by their activities,” he added.
