Manila: One of the partner organizations of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has reported that the family of a slain female New People's Army (NPA) member, who died during a clash in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro on January 1, has rejected attempts by insurgent-supporting groups to portray her as a hero. Instead, they assert she was a victim of deception and manipulation.

According to Philippines News Agency, Anabelle Sabado, National Secretary of the Hands Off Our Children Movement (HOOCM) Inc., stated that the family expressed concern over the exploitation of the victim's death by leftist groups. While grieving, the family is also angry at the circumstances surrounding their daughter's involvement with the NPA.

Sabado emphasized that the family does not consider her a revolutionary hero but rather a victim of deceit and ideological grooming. The family has demanded that groups cease exploiting her memory.

To prevent further exploitation, the family made the difficult decision to have their daughter's remains cremated quickly. As a final act of protection, her ashes were scattered at sea to avoid any further politicization of her death.

Sabado disclosed that the family was unaware of their daughter's position as general secretary of the Kabataan Party-list, a revelation that added to their shock and grief. The victim's radicalization, which occurred rapidly, was inconsistent with her previous life as a devout churchgoer and a kind student at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

The family condemned efforts to intrude into their lives, including attempts to extract personal information under false pretenses. They described these actions as deeply disrespectful. Sabado mentioned that the family is preparing an official statement to express their perspective fully.