Gov’t hopeful of continued peace talks with CPP

Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/JOAN BONDOC

The government is optimistic that the peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) would continue as it seeks to preserve its gains.

This after President Rodrigo Duterte threatened to lift the unilateral ceasefire after the New People’s Army (NPA) ambushed government militiamen.

“I expect that everything will still work out alright,” Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella told reporters in a press briefing on Friday.

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday demanded an explanation and threatened to lift the unilateral ceasefire after he learned the incident.

“Give me answer by tonight (Thursday night) because if tomorrow there is still none, I will revoke the ceasefire order. We return to fighting. That is what you want,” Duterte said during a speech in Lucena City.

READ: Duterte to NPA: Explain attack or I will cancel ceasefire

Abella said the NPA should be “reciprocating” the ceasefire declared by Duterte during his first State of the Nation Address (Sona).

“They’re supposed to be reciprocating as soon as possible,” he said.

The Palace official said Duterte has yet to make a final decision.

“He is giving a small window of opportunity,” Abella said, referring to the CPP-NPA.

Peace process Secretary Jesus Dureza hopes to “preserve the gains” of the peace talks set to resume on August 20.

READ: Communists ask Duterte: Give us time to probe NPA attack

“Let’s all help to mitigate as it is for everyone’s interest, including yours, that we preserve the gains,” Dureza said in a text message.

As for how long would the window of opportunity given by Duterte last, Dureza said, “Let’s all wait.” CDG/rga