MANILA: President Benigno S Aquino III called for a lasting ceasefire with the leftist New People’s Army (NPA) to lessen the collateral damage caused by their decades-long struggle.
“Of course, it is important for us to have a long ceasefire, especially to lessen the collateral damage,” said the President during an interview with the Radio Mindanao Network yesterday.
The government and the leftist rebels are under truce, which started on December 20 last year and will end on January 15. The President said he has to see “good faith” and “gestures of goodwill” in the peace process from the leftist rebels.
“So that’s what we want, to put a stop on the bloodshed among Filipinos,” he added. Aquino also asked the NPA to stop the use of landmines, citing that so far there were at least 25 civilians who were killed due to this explosive device, which is being banned by at least 160 countries, including the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Aquino expressed his optimism that the country will continue to perform well in 2013 despite the many challenges confronting his administration.
“Though many challenges confront us, we know that with the Filipino people on our side and with the support of partners overseas, we can make greater strides,” he said.
While 2012 will be a “difficult year to match,” Aquino said the government’s focus on good governance will continue to yield positive results for the Philippines.
He cited the gains of his administration last year which include the robust performance of the Philippine economy and the signing of the peace deal between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
The Philippine Star
