Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the military will continue law enforcement operation despite the government’s declaration of unilateral ceasefire with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) New People’s Army (NPA) National Democratic Front (NDF).

“The Department of National Defense will strictly implement the President’s declaration of a unilateral ceasefire with the communist terrorist group (CTG), effective 00:00H of March 19, 2020 to 24:00H of April 15, 2020,” Lorenzana said on Thursday.

“I direct the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) to temporarily suspend all offensive combat operations against the CTG but to continue normal law enforcement operations in coordination with the PNP in order to maintain peace and order, and sustain activities in connection with the NTF-ELCAC’s (National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict) programs involving former rebels’ rehabilitation,” he added.

Lorenzana said he also reminded troops to remain vigilant because previously the rebels took advantage of a ceasefire by launching attacks against soldiers and conduct other violent activities.

“I also remind our security forces to remain vigilant, and ready to defend themselves and the communities in their respective areas of responsibility against those who will take advantage of the nationwide state of calamity to advance their selfish cause,” he said.

“The enemy, however, has a bloody track record of using the government’s declarations of ceasefire to launch offensives, ambuscades, destruction of government and private property, extortion activities as well as to recover their dwindling numbers and create a false perception that they still have influence and relevance,” said Lorenzana.

“We have seen time and time again their blatant disregard for the plight of our fellow Filipinos who, especially in trying times, need the help of our brave defenders,” he added. Robina Asido/DMS