MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has laid down seven conditions before the government revives peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that among the conditions are the enforcement of a bilateral ceasefire, the non-creation of a coalition government, no attacks on government forces and civilians, no extortion, no destruction of properties, no recruitment of members and no carrying of firearms.
However, Malacañang is still waiting for the response of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to the conditions set by the president.
Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said the government could withdraw its petition to declare the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group if the peace talks push through.
This is also the concern of Bayan Muna partylist Rep. Carlos Zarate.
“We hope that the resumption of the negotiation will be not dependent on pre-condition set by either party but we urge the parties to observe and respect fast binding agreements that we already mutually agreed by both parties and panels,” Zarate said.
On the other hand, Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano, considered the president’s move a welcome development, noting the military alone cannot not resolve the country’s pursuit of long-term peace.
Alejano said that the root cause of the problem should be addressed.
The lawmaker added that there is no other way to achieve peace but through peace talks. — Grace Casin | UNTV News & Rescue
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