MANILA, Philippines: The Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the National Operations Command of the New People’s Army (NPA) have declared a two-day holiday truce, signaling a temporary cessation of hostilities. The truce, which began at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, December 25 and will last until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, December 26, aims to facilitate assemblies and gatherings commemorating the CPP’s 55th anniversary, as well as traditional holiday celebrations within their communities.
While the CPP-NPA has chosen to observe the ceasefire, the NPA units remain on high-alert, prepared to respond to any hostile movements from their supposed enemies, particularly the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The AFP, however, has not reciprocated the ceasefire, leading to tensions on the ground.
“The AFP cannot control its bloodlust. They cannot give even a short respite to the masses who are tired of the presence of armed soldiers in their communities. Even their foot-soldiers are complaining how they are being used as cannon-fodder without letup,” expressed Marco Valbuena, the CPP’s chief information officer, highlighting the frustrations within the NPA ranks.
It is important to note that the CPP and NPA have a long history of armed struggle against the Philippine government. The CPP was founded on December 26, 1968, with the NPA as its armed wing. Since then, the groups have been engaged in an ongoing insurgency, seeking to establish a socialist state in the Philippines.
The decision to declare a holiday truce comes amidst a backdrop of political tensions and violence. The CPP and NPA have been designated as terrorist organizations by the Philippine government, while the AFP has been actively pursuing counterinsurgency operations against them. This ongoing conflict has resulted in casualties and displacement of civilians, further exacerbating the already complex situation.
The holiday truce provides a brief respite from the violence and an opportunity for the CPP and NPA to reflect on their goals and strategies. It also serves as a platform for the groups to rally their supporters and commemorate their founding anniversary. However, the decision not to reciprocate the ceasefire by the AFP indicates the deep-rooted distrust and animosity between the two sides.
As the ceasefire comes to an end on Tuesday, December 26, NPA units are expected to resume fighting at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, December 27. This resumption of hostilities underscores the challenges in achieving a lasting peace in the Philippines. Efforts towards a negotiated settlement and addressing the root causes of the conflict remain crucial for a sustainable resolution.
In conclusion, the holiday truce declared by the CPP and NPA offers a temporary reprieve from the ongoing conflict in the Philippines. While it allows for celebrations and assemblies, tensions with the AFP persist. The decision not to reciprocate the ceasefire highlights the deep-seated divisions between the two sides. As the truce comes to an end, the resumption of hostilities underscores the need for continued efforts towards a peaceful resolution.
Source: The Manila Times
