Army’s 7ID backs Pres. Duterte-declared truce

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26): Army’s 7ID backs Pres. Duterte-declared truce

The Philippine Army's 7th Infantry Division which covers 14 provinces in Regions 1, 2 and 3 and two towns in Mt. Province, has expressed support on President Rodrigo Duterte's holiday truce making assurance on Monday that "no arrests will be made for those who will favor the President's invitation."

In a statement, the 7ID said it also opened its camps to all.

1Lt. Catherine Hapin, 7ID public affairs officer, said the command adhered to the decision of President Duterte who encouraged all rebel groups and members to spend the season with their families.

"However, members of the Maute Group and Abu Sayyaf Group as well as terrorists and criminal groups are not included in the ceasefire declared by the President," Hapin noted.

The 7ID maintained, however, that it would continue to be vigilant against criminals.

"The ceasefire will not hold back the 7ID from being vigilant against criminals and terrorist groups who will plan to disrupt the celebration of the holiday season and the declared ceasefire," Hapin said.

She said the command also shared the vision of President Duterte for a permanent ceasefire with the communists and Muslim rebels and the success of the peace negotiations.

Meanwhile, Major General Angelito de Leon, 7ID commander, visited Sunday the line units to impart message to the men and women under his charge.

Among the units visited by De Leon were the 701st Infantry Brigade, 71st Infantry Battalion, 69th Infantry Battalion and the 3rd Infantry Battalion in Mindanao; 56th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Calabuaanan, Baler, Aurora; 703rd Brigade in Barangay Calaanan, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija; 702nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Lico, San Rafael, Bulacan; and 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion in Barangay Burgos, San Jose Tarlac.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=951029