Bicol's Army Commander Presents Christmas Gifts to Wounded NPA Leader

SORSOGON CITY Dec 14, 2010–  The Chief of all Philippine Army forces in the Bicol region visited the NPA commander who was wounded in a clash with government troops last week.

Major General Ruperto “Raffy” Pabustan, in a gesture of reconciliation, brought some goodies and financial assistance to the two wounded rebels during his visit in the hospital at around 9:00am yesterday, December 14 (Tuesday).

Last week, Pabustan ordered the speedy medical evacuation of the wounded rebels from a hinterland village in Barcelona town. He also ordered some soldiers to provide blood donation for the injured red rebels.

“I personally come here to tell you that I want to help you go back to the mainstream society by formally surrendering to the government. You can be our partners in our drive to convince your comrades to peacefully surrender,” said Pabustan during his brief chat with Jason Brul aka Ka Butch, the leader of the Front Committee 79 of the communist rebel movement operating in Sorsogon province.

For his part, Brul expressed his deep appreciation for the kindness of the soldiers. He said that he could not forget that the soldiers gave him another chance to live and for respecting their basic rights.

“I thank the soldiers for saving my life. This is probably the best Christmas for me with my family,” said Brul who is celebrating his 34th birthday on December 24.