Despite President Rodrigo Duterte earlier requesting a truce order amid the ongoing situation regarding the coronavirus disease, or Covid-19, the Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade (303IB) said they have yet to receive an order to suspend combat operations.
In the meantime, the 303IB said they have assigned personnel to assist police in conducting law enforcement operations and enforce quarantine measures recently issued by local governments.
Watchmen Daily Journal tried reaching out to the NPA Apolinario Gatmaitan Command for comment regarding the possible ceasefire but they have yet to reply as of press time. However, Jose Maria Sison, chief political consultant for the National Democratic Front, the political arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines, said the organization will “seriously study” Duterte’s ceasefire but said they are hoping it will not only be related to the fight against Covid-19.
He said they would like the resumption of peace negotiations to be a consideration as well.
Last Monday, Duterte called for a ceasefire with the insurgent group as the country further strengthens its efforts to contain the virus.
“Ceasefire muna tayo (There should be a ceasefire for now),” the president said. “I will repay you with a good heart.”/DGB, WDJ