CPP declares Christmas truce

MANILA, Philippines - The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has declared a ceasefire to observe holiday traditions and to celebrate its 45th anniversary.

In a statement, the CPP said the truce will take effect from December 24 to December 26 and from December 31 to January 2.

“This ceasefire declaration is being issued in solidarity with the Filipino people’s traditional observance of Christmas and New Year holidays,” CPP said.

“Furthermore, the ceasefire declaration is being issued in order to allow the Filipino people and their revolutionary forces to join mass celebrations to mark the 45th anniversary of the CPP’s re-establishment on December 26,” it added.

CPP said the New People’s Army (NPA) and the people’s militia has been ordered to “cease and desist from carrying out offensive operations” against the military, police and other forces attached to the government.

The CPP ceasefire committee reminded its forces to remain vigilant against any encroachments into their territory.

“In the face of clear and imminent danger, NPA and people’s militia units retain the option to engage in armed hostilities as an act of self-defense and in order to prevent the enemy from unleashing its brutalities against the people,” the group said.

The government has yet to reciprocate the CPP declaration as of press time.