The Palace welcomes the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army’s (CPP-NPA) declaration of a unilateral ceasefire with the government in observance of the Filipino people’s traditional holidays.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte decided to declare a suspension of offensive military operations (SOMO) against the Reds precisely because he wants Filipinos to feel safer during the holiday season.

We expect that the CPP-NPA would honor their word and comply with the unilateral ceasefire, so that our people could truly experience a peaceful Christmas celebration.

Rest assured that the government will remain vigilant in ensuring the safety of our countrymen. May we all stand together in fulfilling our shared desire of achieving lasting peace throughout the nation.