2012 a 'trying' year for CPP-NPA talks - Deles

MANILA, Philippines - The government peace panel admitted that the past year had been "particularly trying" in the peace process with the Communist Party of the Philippines-National People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

In its New Year message on Tuesday, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said the peace talks with the communist rebels have been "most challenging" in 2012 since it begun two decades ago.

The current cease-fire between the rebels and the government, however, is a sign that the two camps are "back on track working together" despite the setbacks, OPAPP said in the statement.

"The process has moved forward. A ceasefire is in place, stilling the guns over the Christmas season and allowing soldier and rebel to spend Christmas with family and friends," OPAPP added.

The temporary state of peace had also facilitated the relief and rehabilitation efforts of government for victims of Typhoon Pablo in Davao Oriental as resources and manpower were sent there.

"We pray that the ceasefire will hold and help steel the resolve of both sides for a just and enduring peace now and not later. This we owe to our people," OPAPP said.

The process will continue and sees a promise in 2013 as both government and CPP-NPA-NDF "have laid the foundation" to resume talks, OPAPP concluded.