The government peace panel negotiating with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has expressed disappointment over the decision of communist rebels to cut short the ceasefire they earlier declared with state security forces.
After President Aquino belatedly approved the proposed extension of Christmas ceasefire up to January 15, the communist-led National Democratic Front of the Philippines recommended to the Communist Party of the Philippines to also declare the extension of its own truce period.
Communist insurgents on Wednesday called off a truce with the government, almost two weeks ahead of its proposed end, raising concerns about the future of the peace talks between the two sides.
More than 50 communist rebels attacked an army patrol base in the southern Philippines Tuesday, leaving one pro-government militiaman and a guerrilla dead in the clash, officials said.
