Manila, Philippines(PR/the Redline News) I welcome the statement of Mr. Luis Jalandoni on the readiness of the
National Democratic Front to sign a bilateral ceasefire agreement with the
government even before the release of the political prisoners.
The willingness of the NDF to sign the bilateral ceasefire agreement is
indeed a welcome development as this bodes well to a positive atmosphere when
we meet again for the third round of talks in January.
A bilateral ceasefire would not only benefit the combatants but the
people who are caught in the crossfire of this armed conflict.
The GRP panel further recognizes the NDF’s efforts to work with us to
attain peace. Its declaration of an indefinite unilateral ceasefire in response
to President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration in August is unprecedented and
historic. Agreeing to a bilateral ceasefire is another milestone in the peace
process.
Both panels have never set preconditions since the start of the
negotiations under this administration. Despite the challenges, we continue to
struggle to make peace happen for the country and the Filipino people.
Rest assured that the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte
remains committed to the release of a substantial number of political
prisoners. The President has already shown time and again that he delivers on
his word.
Forging a bilateral ceasefire agreement is the best gift the government
and the NDF can give to the Filipino people this holiday season. May this lead
to the permanent end of hostilities for the new year leading to a just and
lasting peace. (PR/posted by Becky D. de Asis - The Redline News)
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