Gov't, NDF agree on joint ceasefire

From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 22): Gov't, NDF agree on joint ceasefire

Members of the New People's Army in Negros Occidental now have time to celebrate Christmas with their families “undisturbed”.  Col. Oscar Lactao, 303 rd Infantry Brigade commander, however, discouraged rebels from displaying their firearms, as this may cause apprehension and fear among the civilian populace, who may report them to the authorities. If there is an armed group, the military and police will be forced to respond to reports and verify, Lactao said. He, however, added there will be no problem, if they are unarmed.

The National Democratic Front and the government have agreed to observe a 27-day ceasefire from Dec. 20 to Jan. 15 next year, a bilateral declaration that is considered by Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Teresita Quintos-Deles as the longest ceasefire between the two parties. Lactao, who welcomed the ceasefire, said it will reduce the level of violence and emotions, while increasing trust and confidence between the two warring parties. This will also give time to Army soldiers to celebrate the yuletide season with their r families, he added.

During the ceasefire period, all NPA units and people's militias shall cease and desist from carrying out offensive military operations against government armed units and personnel, the Communist Party of the Philippines, said in a statement it issued. Personnel of the AFP and PNP who have no serious liabilities other than their membership in their armed units, shall not be subjected to arrest or punitive actions. They may be allowed individually to enter the territory of the people's democratic government to make personal visits to relatives and friends, the CPP statement added.

Governor Alfredo Maranon yesterday welcomed the ceasefire declared by the NPA, saying that the Christmas season should be celebrated peacefully and joyously. Instead of fighting and killing each other, let us sit down and look at the problems of the country, Lactao said. While it is complicated, it is not really insurmountable. Let's look at the possible solution, then implement the best solution, he added. The CPP is marking its 44 th founding anniversary on Dec. 26. While he wished them a happy celebration, it should not be celebrated in a negative way by killing fellow Filipinos, Lactao said.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/December/22/topstory4.htm