CPP caused over 5 decades of suffering – NSC

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The National Security Council (NSC) reiterated the government’s firm stance against armed insurgency and violence as the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) marked its 57th anniversary yesterday.

In a statement, the NSC said the CPP and its armed wing the New People’s Army caused decades of suffering to Filipinos, particularly those in rural and geographically isolated communities, as their armed campaign resulted in loss of life and displacement of civilians over the past 57 years.   

The NSC noted that recent armed encounters, including incidents during the holiday season, demonstrate that violence continues to be used as a means to pursue political objectives.

Despite public declarations of temporary ceasefires, the NSC said the rebel attacks reflect insincerity, noting that violence erodes trust and places civilians at risk.

The NSC is calling on the remaining armed rebels to surrender their weapons, return to the fold of the law and participate in nation-building.

It also urged the public, particularly the youth, to reject violence and support peaceful and lawful avenues for reform. 

Ending the armed conflict, the NSC said, requires collective resolve to uphold accountability, human rights and development that benefits all Filipinos.