Gorero: NPA will honor the ceasefire

By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Police Regional Office-6 (PRO-6) yesterday said they would maintain alert readiness despite President Rodrigo Duterte announcing a holiday ceasefire between government forces and the New People’s Army (NPA).

According to Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque, the ceasefire is set to begin at 6:00 p.m. tomorrow, December 23, and run until 11:59 p.m. on December 26. It then resumes at 6:00 p.m. on December 30 and will continue until 11:59 p.m. on January 2.

PRO-6 spokesperson, Police Superintendent Gilbert Gorero, noted, they have yet to receive any directives otherwise from headquarters.

With the suspension of military operations, Gorero said they will concentrate on maintaining peace and order during the Christmas break through police visibility in the streets and conducting routine patrols.

In terms of the NPA adhering to the ceasefire, Gorero said they trust the rebel group would honor the truce.

He added, however, PRO-6 is ready for combat if the group decides to attack, especially on December 26, which is the anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

The NPA, meanwhile, said they would also remain on alert during the holidays, as they believe the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police (PNP) may “take advantage of the ceasefire declaration for their own gains.”/DGB, WDJ