Truce with Reds OK’d till Jan. 15

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino has approved a holiday truce with communist rebels.

Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. of the Presidential Communications Operations Office said the ceasefire started yesterday and will last until Jan. 15.

It was based on the recommendation of Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and presidential adviser for the peace process Teresita Deles, Coloma said.

Speaking to reporters, Armed Forces chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista said the six-day holiday truce – from Dec. 24 to 26 and from Dec 31 to Jan. 2 – that the National Democratic Front-Communist Party of the Philippines had declared is too short.

“If they (rebels) declare a long-term ceasefire, our countrymen will no longer suffer because of the armed struggle,” he said. “They have been suffering for too long.”

Last year, the government suspended military operations against the communist New People’s Army from Dec. 16 to Jan. 15.

Aquino: Public trust is important

Aquino told soldiers yesterday that earning the public’s trust is more important than ceasefires and victories in combat.

Speaking at the 78th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Aquino said the true foundation of security is the public’s confidence in the military’s ability to face threats and to resist temptations.

“It is not enough to win battles or declare temporary ceasefires,” he said in Filipino.

“What is more important is to win the hearts and minds of our countrymen and their trust that when there is a Filipino soldier, they are confident.”

Aquino said he is proud to be the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces.

“Your significant contribution, especially those who have been awarded with medals today, will forever be etched in the history of our armed forces,” he said.

Aquino expressed his gratitude to soldiers and military officers for their loyalty and devotion to duty despite the series of disasters that devastated some parts of the country.

“Without any doubt, despite the continued challenges that beset us this year, you can hold your head up high and be proud to our forebears, and to our citizens as well, that you have shown your bravery, perseverance and dedication to public service,” he said.

Aquino mentioned the three-week Zamboanga City siege, the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Bohol and Cebu, and the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda in the Visayas.

“Again, thank you very much for your dedicated service,” he said. “Thank you very much for helping out victims of Typhoon Yolanda. The whole citizenry salutes you for showing your skill and professionalism.” – With Alexis Romero