AFP gears up for possible NPA attacks after peace talks cancellation

FILE: AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero (Photo: Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP/Facebook)

MANILA — Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero said the military would do its best to protect and defend all peace-loving communities from the attacks of the communist rebels.

This after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the cancellation of all planned meetings aimed at reviving the peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) Wednesday following a series of atrocities conducted by the rebels.

“We support the President’s decision to cancel talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF and will continue to safeguard our communities against attacks by the NPAs,” he added.

In line with this, Guerrero urged the public to continue supporting the AFP’s peace and development efforts.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, in a statement, said atrocities and other violent incidents committed by the rebels forced the Chief Executive to come about with the decision cancelling all planned meetings with the rebel group.

“Recent tragic and violent incidents all over the country committed by the communist rebels left the President with no other choice but to arrive at this decision. We take guidance from the President’s recent announcements and declarations. This is an unfortunate development in our work for peace. Never before have we all reached this far in our negotiations with them,” he added.

Duterte suspended the peace talks between the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF last February 4 following a series of atrocities conducted by rebel forces against unarmed security troops and civilians. (PNA)