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PNP backs 'sincere' return to peace table with Reds

By Benjamin Pulta

April 5, 2018, 6:34 pm

MANILA -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it supports efforts for the resumption of 'sincere' peace talks between government and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

"The PNP is pro-peace and we support all government efforts to achieve lasting peace," PNP spokesperson Chief Supt. John Bulalacao said Thursday.

"All of us have witnessed the sincerity of the government through President Duterte for exhausting all possible means to hold the peace negotiation with the CPP-NPA-NDF," he said.

Bulalacao, however, noted that "the rebels should show sincerity and good faith while talking peace with the government. They need to show control of their men on the ground so that the final peace talk may successfully work".

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Thursday said he supports the peace initiative.

Lorenzana said President Duterte has agreed to talk peace with the CPP-NPA-NDF subject to the declaration of a bilateral ceasefire.

The government added that there should be no attacks on government forces and civilians and that insurgents should also desist from destroying property, stop recruitment drives and other atrocities. (PNA)

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