Año to Reds: Consider political settlement for sake of young members

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 30, 2024): Año to Reds: Consider political settlement for sake of young members (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año (PNA file photo)

MANILA – National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año has called on the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to consider a political settlement to allow its remaining members to help the government in nation-building, as the communist movement continues to dwindle.

"It is time for the CPP to recognize its defeat and consider a political settlement for the sake of its remaining members, particularly its young cadres, who have talents and energy better suited to nation-building. There is no shame in choosing the path of genuine parliamentary struggle, free from the burden of armed violence," he said in a statement over the weekend.

He noted that the CPP is now a shadow of its former self while its armed wing, the New People’s Army, is reduced to sporadic criminal activities rather than credible tactical offensives.

"What remains is a disillusioned and depleted force – hungry, exhausted, and isolated. The CPP's business model, in refusing to recognize the evolving aspirations of Filipinos, is bankrupt and will, in no time, be relegated to the dustbin of history," he added.

Año, who is also the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict vice-chair, added that territorial defense, climate action, social justice, sustainment of peace gains and other pressing challenges await those willing to contribute constructively.

"These are struggles worth fighting for – ones that do not sow destruction but instead unite Filipinos toward progress," the NSA added.

As the CPP celebrated its 56th anniversary on Dec. 26, the NTF-ELCAC vice chair urged its members and leaders to reflect on the irrelevance of their cause in the present day.

"From the CPP’s own teachings that 'the revolutionary must move amongst the people as a fish swims in the sea,' it is clear that the 'sea' or the Filipino people now demand peace, development, and unity. Persisting in a countercurrent and violent struggle serves neither the people nor the country’s aspirations," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1240730