AFP calls for suspension of military operations but dates yet to be known

MANILA, Philippines—The Armed Forces of the Philippines will call for a suspension of military operations (SOMO) with the New People’s Army in accordance with the forthcoming Christmas holidays, a military spokesman confirmed on Tuesday but said they have yet to decide on the length of the holiday truce.

“We will be recommending a SOMO in connection with the Christmas and New Year holidays,” said AFP spokesman Colonel Arnulfo Burgos Jr. in a press briefing held at Camp Aguinaldo.

Burgos said they will declare a SOMO like they have in previous years but the number of days would depend on the threat assessment from field commanders.

Likewise, they will also be consulting with the Philippine National Police and higher offices like the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process.

Meanwhile, Burgos called on to the NPA to honor the SOMO that will be declared by the military.

Burgos noted the SOMO will benefit all parties involved, not just the military.

“Walang talo pagdating sa tigil-putukan (No one loses when it comes to ceasefire),” Burgos said.

Last year, the Aquino administration declared the longest Christmas truce in history which lasted for 19 days beginning from December 16, 2010 to January 3, 2011. The long SOMO came before the resumption of the peace talks with the National Democratic Front-Communist Party of the Philippines.