Ceasefire with Reds possible, says AFP chief

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines  — Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Ricardo David Jr. expressed optimism yesterday that a ceasefire between government and the communist rebels is possible under the Aquino administration.

David told The STAR during his visit to the Army’s 9th Infantry Division Army headquarters at Camp Elias Angeles in Pili, Camarines Sur that force is not the only solution to solve the prevailing insurgency conflict between the government and the communist rebels.

“The Aquino administration is determined to put an end to the insurgency problem. And if ceasefire will open a door that will make possible peace talks with the rebels, why not?” David said after he had a briefing with his field commanders in Bicol.

He also said that the number of armed rebels was already reduced from the former 25,000 to only 5,000 at present, across the country.

David told the soldiers that President Aquino would like the Armed Forces to be on top of programs and activities that would lead to lasting peace.

“But while we are working for this (peace), the AFP must continue to fulfill its combat roles to protect our communities. Our pursuit to fill up our combat scoreboard should be done not at the expense of civilians and non-combatants,” he said.

David also inspected the 63 assorted firearms, improvised explosive devices, and communication equipment that government troops recovered in separate encounters and raids across Bicol since April last year.

He also warned soldiers against the practice of using their automated teller machine (ATM) cards as collateral in obtaining loans while waiting for the release of their salaries.

“I will strictly enforce the directive against the pawning of your ATM cards or their use as collateral,” said David, who also assured the soldiers of the early release of their combat incentive pay.

David made his first visit to Bicol where he also led the ceremonial groundbreaking of the AFP Commissary Exchange Service and the opening of the enlisted personnel clubhouse inside Camp Elias Angeles.