THE Philippine government peace panel and the National Democratic Front (NDF) will resume peace negotiations in Noordwijk, Netherlands on April 2 to 6, the Norwegian envoy said Tuesday.

In a statement, Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Erik Førner said the fourth round of talks would focus on the discussion of social economic reforms and bilateral ceasefire agreement.

"I am pleased that representatives of the Philippine government and the NDF will meet for a new round of talks. Despite challenges along the way, the parties continue to show their commitment to peace," Førner said.

Førner assured that Norway, as the third facilitator of the peace process, would assist the two parties to come up with an agreement beneficial to all.

He said the talks would be chaired by Norwegian special envoy to the peace process Elisabeth Slåttum.

The armed conflict between the Philippine government and the communist group's armed wing has been ongoing for 50 years.

The government's peace dialogue with the communists was earlier terminated by President Rodrigo Duterte but had been revived following the successful back-channel talks between peace negotiators of both sides.

Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Jesus Dureza had said the two parties would also reinstate their respective unilateral ceasefire before they resume the talks in April.

Dureza had said the government was expected to determine and agree on rules, necessary guidelines and mechanisms regarding the bilateral ceasefire agreement.

The government peace panel and the NDF will hold another round of talks in June. (SunStar Philippines)