NPA leader surrenders in Sultan Kudarat

From the Manila Times (Aug 8, 2021): NPA leader surrenders in Sultan Kudarat (By Franz Sumangil)

A HIGH ranking communist rebel and his companion surrendered to the military in their desire to return to their families and live peacefully, an Army official said.

Lt. Col. Rommel Valencia, 7th Infantry Battalion commander, presented the surrenderers to Sultan Kudarat Gov. Suharto Mangudadatu, also chairman of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Conflict.

The ceremony was held at the Sultan Kudarat Sangguniang Panlalawigan session hall Friday morning.

The former communist rebels were identified as Nelson Duluman alias Jerick, leader of Platoon West, Sub-Regional Command, Far South Mindanao Region of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army.

Dulunan was responsible for organizing communist mass base in the outskirts of Palimbang, Kalamansig and Senator Ninoy Aquino, all municipalities in Sultan Kudarat. His companion, Arthur Masot, surrendered with him.

The two brought with them a Garand rifle and M-4 rifle with ammunition.

"Constant and continuing military offensives in the mountains of Sultan Kudarat forced us to surrender," Dulunan said. "Primarily, my reason for yielding is to be with my family and my 10-year old son."

Valencia said his unit will continue to offer the hand of peace to "communist rebels who want to surrender and reform but will also continue using force to those who prefer war."

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/08/08/news/regions/npa-leader-surrenders-in-sultan-kudarat/1810103