AFP announces SOMO from Dec. 16 to Jan. 2, 2013

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 15): AFP announces SOMO from Dec. 16 to Jan. 2, 2013

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday announced that this Yuletide season's suspension of military operation (SOMO) will start this Dec. 16. Col. Arnulfo M. Burgos, Jr., AFP spokesperson, said that the SOMO against the New People's Army (NPA) will last until Jan. 2, 2013. "The SOMO will include the deliberate offensive operations against the NPA but will maintain activities supporting government and civil authorities' peace and development and humanitarian assistance programs," he pointed out. Burgos said the objective of the unilateral implementation of the Yuletide SOMO is to demonstrate the AFP's commitment, sincerity and resolve for peace. "(This is) in spite of conflict with the insurgent group," he said. The AFP spokesperson added the SOMO will give opportunity to soldiers and villagers in conflict areas to celebrate the Christmas holidays peacefully.

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