AFP to observe extended SOMO despite CPP decision to end it 13 days earlier

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 2): AFP to observe extended SOMO despite CPP decision to end it 13 days earlier

Despite the decision of the Communist Party of the Philippines to end the suspension of military offensive 13 days earlier, the Armed Forces Wednesday said it will continue to implement the truce in support of the government's peace initiatives. The extended truce started last Dec. 20, 2012 and was supposed to end this Jan. 15. "The objective of the implementation of the extended SOMO is to further demonstrate the AFP's commitment, sincerity and resolve for peace in spite of conflicts with the insurgent group," military spokesperson Col. Arnulfo M. Burgos, Jr., said.

The extended SOMO was done to allow fighters from both parties to observe and celebrate the Yuletide holidays with their loved ones. "While the AFP fully abides with the extended SOMO, it will maintain activities supporting the government and civil authorities’ peace, development, and humanitarian assistance programs. We will also continue our proactive defense countermeasures to ensure our people’s safety and security during the conduct of the extended ceasefire," he added. Burgos said the AFP remains firm in its commitment to the cause of peace and steadfast in the fulfillment of its constitutional mandate as protector of the people and the state.

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