AFP spokesperson Restituto Padilla. FILE
THE defense department and military backed the unilateral ceasefire with communist rebels declared by President Rodrigo Duterte during his State of the Nation Address (Sona) on Monday, but said they will remain on alert.
“Our troops will comply but they will not put their guard down. The ceasefire will cover combat operations against insurgents but not against lawless armed groups,” Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said.
He said he expects the communists to reciprocate the ceasefire.
Duterte said in his speech the unilateral ceasefire was “effective immediately.”
AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the truce was a “very bold move” but they support the President in his efforts of lasting peace nonetheless.
The AFP, however, “will remain alert, vigilant and ready to defend itself and pursue attackers if confronted by armed elements of the New People’s Army (NPA).”
Padilla said the government has shown sincerity and they expect the same from the communist rebels.
The communist rebels are waging one of Asia’s longest insurgencies.
The military estimates that there are still about 4,000 members of the NPA. Peace talks with communist leaders are scheduled for August.
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