Manila, April 10 -- The communist New People's Army (NPA) has lost 20 fighters through surrenders to various Army units in the Caraga Region from February to early April 2025, the military said Thursday.

The surrenders followed the death of Myrna Sularte, also known as Maria Malaya, the top rebel leader in the Caraga Region who headed the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), according to the Army's 901st Infantry Brigade (901Bde).

In a statement Thursday, the 901Bde added that the surrenderers also turned over seven firearms, ammunition, and other war materials during this period.

Of the 20 fighters, 14 were identified as regular NPA members under the NEMRC, while the other six were militia members operating in areas cove...