AFP, NPA declare ceasefire on Christmas, New Year

In the spirit of Christmas, the Armed Forced of the Philippines and the New People’s Army (NPA) are on ceasefire.

Col. Philip Lapinid, deputy commander for operations of the Central Command, said both parties have agreed to celebrate Christmas and New Year peacefully.

“We welcome that they (NPA) also declared a ceasefire,” said Lapinid.

Lapinid said they have received information from the Central Office that the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) would hold fire starting midnight of December 24 until 25, December 31 to January 1 and  during the visit of the Pope Francis from January 15 until January 19.

Lapinid said they were the first to declare ceasefire.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) would start their ceasefire at midnight of December 18 until January 19.

Lapinid said this is not the first time that they declared a ceasefire for the Yuletide season.

He assured though that they would not be caught off guard in case the NPA will not honor the agreement, especially that Dec. 26 is the CPP anniversary.

“We are not prevented from conducting security patrols. We are prevented from conducting offensive operations,” said Lapinid.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is again promoting a gun-free holiday season.

Police offices in Central Visayas yesterday sealed  off the muzzles of all service firearms in simultaneous ceremonies to prevent indiscriminate firing during the Christmas and New Year celebration.

The tape bears the signature of the head of office to avoid tampering.

Administrative and criminal charges will be filed against any police officer who fires his gun indiscrimately