Local NPA declares ceasefire

THE New People’s Army (NPA) in Negros has declared a ceasefire which took effect at 12:01 a.m. early morning yesterday and will end at 11:59 p.m. on April 15 amid concerns against Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19).

In a declaration, NPA Apolinario Gatmaitan Command spokesperson, Ka Juanito Magbanua said the purpose of the ceasefire is to ensure that the movement of medical, health, and economic assistance will not be hampered.

“The truce is also a gesture given by the NPA to the government forces in order to facilitate a positive atmosphere for the resumption of peace talks,” Magbanua stated.

The declaration of the NPA in the province was made after they received the order from the central committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines to declare a ceasefire in order to concentrate all efforts in combatting Covid-19.

“During the ceasefire period, all NPA units and people’s militias shall cease and desist from carrying out offensive military operations against the armed units and personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP),” the declaration said.

However, the NPA was also ordered to stay vigilant and ready to act in self-defense if the AFP or the PNP launches an operation against them.

NDF chief political consultant, Jose Maria Sison in his order stated the recommendation was made in response to a request from United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres for a global ceasefire between warring parties for the common purpose of fighting the pandemic.

Local military officials earlier condemned the rebels for recently conducting attacks of a Cafgu detachment in Negros Oriental. (TDE)

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