AFP not recommending holiday truce

THE ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is not recommending the suspension of military operations (SOMO) against the Communist rebels this yuletide season.

In a text message, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Noel Clement said past experiences show that the New People’s Army (NPA) continued with its criminal activities despite the truce.

While vowing to continue operations against the rebels, Clement also assure they will pursue their community outreach programs.

“We foresee a very peaceful and more united Christmas,” he said.

Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, the spokesperson of the AFP’s Eastern Mindanao

Command, also said that the security operations of the different military units in the ground will continue.

Last year, the government did not reciprocate the unilateral ceasefire issued by the Communist group.