THE Philippine National Police (PNP) maintained that it will not halt its operations against enemies of the state, even during the 55th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army, in the country.
In a media interview, PNP Chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. emphasized that as long as crimes are occurring, their program against wrongdoers, especially if it poses a threat to the public, will persist.
At present, the celebration of the movement remains negative for any threats to public security, although they continue to monitor communist terrorist CPP-NPA.
Meanwhile, the Philippine military said it does not recognize the two-day ceasefire demanded by the CPP-NPA during the commemoration of their movement’s founding in the country.
According to Philippine Army North Luzon Command, Commander LtGen. Fernyl Buca, despite the announcement of the CPP-NPA and the National Democratic Front for a ceasefire during their celebration, military operations, both traditional and non-traditional, will still continue.
“NOLCOM will remain relentless in all its operations against threats to peace and security of the people. There will be no suspension of any of our traditional and non-traditional military operations,” according to LtGen. Fernyl Buca, Commander, North Luzon Command, Philippine Army .
The military also believes that the declared ceasefire will be exploited by the CPP-NPA to undermine the hard-earned progress in the fight against insurgency.
“That the declared ceasefire might be exploited by the CTGs to undermine the military’s hard-earned progress against insurgency,” LtGen. Buca said.
Buca also acknowledged the sacrifice of soldiers, who are away from their families this holiday season to fulfill their duty and ensure the safety of communities.
“Our military personnel are away from their families this holiday season, putting their lives on the line to ensure that the communities in north and central Luzon can celebrate the holiday season safely with their loved ones,” Buca added.
On the other hand, the military continues to urge remaining members of the CPP-NPA in the country to abandon armed struggle, surrender, and embrace peace for the nation’s progress and the opportunity to reunite with their families.
“In light of the holiday spirit, NOLCOM extends an invitation to the remaining CTG members to abandon armed struggle and surrender.
It is an opportunity to embrace peace, contribute to the nation’s progress, and reunite with their families during this joyous season,” he also added.
