Top NPA leader slain in clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY: Government troops clashed with the New People’s Army on Tuesday, February 27, and killed a female leader of the communist terrorist group tagged as behind the spate of attacks on military targets in the southern Philippines region of Zamboanga where the rebels are actively operating.

Senior army officials hailed the slaying of Aprecia Rosete, also known as Bambam, who had dozens of arrest warrants and reward money for her capture dead or alive.

Rosete, head of the Western

Mindanao Regional Party Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front, was killed in an encounter with the military in the village of Malagalad, Dumingag town,

Zamboanga del Sur.

The 102nd Infantry Brigade said Rosete, a native of Davao region, was tagged as the mastermind behind the series of extortion, murders, and sabotage activities in the Zamboanga Peninsula. It said Rosete had 30 warrants of arrest against her at the time of her death.

Troops also recovered Rosete’s AK47 assault rifle with two magazines, a caliber .45 pistol with one magazine, and personal belongings.

Maj. Gen. Gabriel Viray 3rd, commander of the 1st Infantry Division, congratulated the 102nd Infantry Brigade for their accomplishment.

“This operation marks a critical step towards dismantling the

Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee that will eventually allow unhampered delivery of basic services in all remote areas of Zamboanga Peninsula. I commend the bravery and dedication of the troops involved; your sacrifices and hard work have finally paid off,” Viray said.

Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, also commended the soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division for their relentless efforts in bringing justice and peace to the region.

“For too long, the insurgency has plagued the Zamboanga Peninsula, but justice has been served with the fall of Rosete,” Gonzales said. “This victory marks a significant milestone in our journey towards peace and stability, paving the way for sustainable regional development.”

Lt. Col. Terrence Ylanan, commander the 53rd Infantry Battalion and commander of Task Unit Terminator, whose unit was responsible for the killing of Rosete, assured assistance for the proper burial of the rebel leader.

“Our troops have displayed exceptional courage and professionalism in this operation. This successful neutralization underscores our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the safety and security of our communities. We will ensure that Aprecia’s remains are handled with respect and returned to her family,” Ylanan said.

Brig. Gen. Elmer Suderio, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, condoled with the family of Rosete and at the same time commended the soldiers for their dedication and bravery.

“While we celebrate this victory, we cannot overlook that Bambam’s demise could have been prevented if she opted to surrender. We mourn the loss of life and remain steadfast in our commitment to preventing such incidents in the future,” Suderio said.

There was no immediate statement from the hierarchy of the communist rebel group on the slaying of Rosete. The NPA has been fighting for many decades now for the establishment of a communist state in the country.