The New People’s Army (NPA) in Negros Occidental yesterday said they are ready to adhere to a holiday ceasefire with government forces once an order is issued by the Communist Party of the Philippines central committee.
NPA-Apolinario Gatmaitan Command spokesperson Ka Juanito Magbanua said they are ready to suspend offensives against government forces for Christmas and New Year’s Day, despite the Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) indicating there will be no ceasefire against the insurgent group.
Magbanua also slammed the 3ID, along with “war hawks” in the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte, for failing to resume peace talks, “sabotaging NPA goodwill measures” by declaring a ceasefire for the holidays, and the government’s refusal to release Ka Frank Fernandez and Ka Cleofe Lagtapon.
Earlier this month, 3ID commander, Brigadier General Eric Vinoya, said there will be no ceasefire with the NPA insurgents and the army will continue its pursuit operations against NPA insurgents in the region.
“There’s no ceasefire,” he affirmed. “We will continue with our relentless effort.”/DGB, WDJ