Monday, December 05, 2011

Palace awaits AFP recommendation on Christmas truce with NPA rebels

MalacaƱang is waiting for the recommendation of Armed Forces of the Philippines regarding the traditional declaration of “Christmas ceasefire” with the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

Pinag-aaralan ngayon ‘yung ceasefire nga. Last year, we did that. So, ngayon, we will wait for the recommendation from the AFP,” presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said at a press briefing Monday.

The government has been declaring ceasefire with the communist rebels during the Christmas season for the past eight years. Last year, the AFP recommended to President Benigno Aquino III the suspension of military operations (SOMO) as early as November.

On Monday, Lacierda noted that the ceasefire “is good for both parties.”

“It’s always an opportunity for the rebels to come down from the mountains and be with their families,” he said.

Lacierda said Aquino will study the matter once the military leadership submits its recommendation. “We have not received any recommendation yet. Once we receive it and once the President makes a decision, we will let you know,” he said. — Amita O. Legaspi/KBK, GMA News
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December 5, 2011 2:32pm

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