The New People’s Army (NPA) Apolinario Gatmaitan Regional Operational Command over the weekend said they will uphold their ceasefire declaration for the holidays despite refusals from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police.

In a statement forwarded to the rebel group by the Communist Party of the Philippines information bureau, their five-day unilateral ceasefire declaration is in solidarity with traditional holidays as well as to commemorate their 50th anniversary, which takes place on December 26.

“A temporary halt will be observed on the specified days,” they added.

Earlier, Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade (303 IB) commander, Colonel Benedict Arevalo, said they will remain on ‘full alert’ status despite the NPA’s declarations, stating, if the NPA follows their truce or not, it will not have any effect on the present security situation.

Arevalo noted, NPA rebels usually conduct attacks before and after the day of the ceasefire.

He added, it is not yet sure if all NPA units will follow the mandate since they have previously experienced violations of past ceasefire declarations.

The AFP, meanwhile, stated they are not inclined to recommending a Christmas truce with the communist rebels, stating, suspensions of military operations have not worked to the best interest of Filipinos.

The AFP added, they do not want the NPA to use the holiday truce as an opportunity to celebrate their 50th anniversary on December 26.

However, the AFP is still prepared to follow orders from President Rodrigo Duterte if he decides to also declare a ceasefire with the rebels./DGB, WDJ