AN OFFICIAL of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) said they’re still awaiting a directive from their higher headquarters on the suspension of military operations (Somo) or the temporary ceasefire for the holidays.
While no directive has been issued yet, Captain Joe Patrick Martinez, 4ID spokesperson, said there will be no let-up in military operations in priority areas.
"Meron man o wala, sa amin, our partnership with the Philippine National Police (PNP) is consistent to ensure that security is always in place," he said.
"With the security situation at hand following PRRD's (Duterte) declaration of the NPA (New People's Army) as terror group, your Army have enough force to quell any attempt of these communist-terrorists to disrupt the solemnity of the celebration of the yuletide season, because we know how important is the holidays," he added.
"With the question if the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) will have its yuletide break, we haven't received any guidance from the higher headquarters. But with whatever the decision is, we are fully aware that soldiers play a vital role in protecting our people and securing communities," Martinez added.
He said the security forces will also be on alert status for possible attacks the communist guerillas launch as important holidays near.
In November, however, President Duterte said there will be no more ceasefire with the NPA this Christmas season.
He also earlier declared the NPAs as "terrorists". The Malacañan also announced that the decision to not declare a holiday truce will stay.
The ceasefire order is being issued in solidarity with the Filipino people’s traditional celebrations of Christmas and New Year holidays. It usually falls on December 25 (Christmas Day), December 26 (NPA anniversary), December 31 and January 1.
During the ceasefire period, all NPA units and people’s militias will stop carrying out offensive military operations against the armed units and personnel of the AFP, the PNP and other paramilitary and armed groups attached to the government. The state forces, meanwhile, reciprocate these acts.