AFP to stay on the defensive vs Reds

MANILA, Philippines — The military will continue its defensive operations as government forces observe President Duterte’s declaration of the suspension of military operations (SOMO) against the communist New People’s Army (NPA) that started yesterday and will be in effect until Dec. 26.

In observance of the traditional Christmas ceasefire with NPA rebels, Duterte also called for a SOMO from 6 p.m. of Dec. 30 to 11:59 p.m. of Jan. 2.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea issued the one-page order after the President ordered the unilateral ceasefire, which was followed by the declaration of a similar ceasefire by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the NPA that reciprocated the government’s move.

Malacañang directed Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Armed Forces chief Gen. Rey Guerrero and Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa to follow the President’s directive without prejudice to the security forces’ right to self-defense.

“It is understood that during the suspension of military operations on the said periods, the AFP and the PNP will continue to undertake defensive military and police actions and movements as may be necessary to secure civilian communities,” Medialdea said.

The military and the police are also tasked to protect government establishments, military installations and bases. 

According to Medialdea, the ceasefire is meant “to provide our military and uniformed personnel and our people in conflict areas a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the Yuletide season in peace and harmony with their families.” 

Meanwhile, one soldier was wounded when Army troops clashed with communist guerrillas in a remote village in Magpet, North Cotabato last Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Harold Argamosa, commander of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion, said the rebels were preparing to celebrate in the area the CPP’s 49th founding anniversary on Dec. 26.

Argamosa, commander of the 39th Infantry Battalion, said the rebels were driven out of Sitio Punong, Barangay Manobo after a brief firefight.

Recovered from the scene of the encounter were an M16 rifle, food rations, backpacks and rebel documents.

Argamosa said one soldier was wounded while some rebels were believed wounded after bloodstains were spotted on their escape route.

The NPA said the government ‘s alleged death squads are not covered by the Christmas ceasefire of the rebel group, the CPP’s central committee said late Friday.

In a statement posted on CPP’s official website, the CPP Central Commitee said all units of the NPA and the people’s militia are on full alert.

“Active self-defense shall be undertaken in the face of clear and imminent danger. This ceasefire order does not cover the government’s death squads,” the CPP said.

– With Jaime Laude, Jose Rodel Clapano