Presidential Adviser on the Peace
Process Teresita Quintos Deles welcomed the joint suspension of military and
police operations (SOMO-SOPO) announced by the Armed Forces of the Philippines
(AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) noting “more reasons for an
extended Christmas ceasefire” this year with the Communist Party of the
Philippines/National Peoples' Army/National Democratic Front (CPP/NPA/NDF).
“The SOMO-SOPO covering the period
19 December (from midnight of 18th) 2014 to 19 January 2015 is in line with
government’s Christmas tradition, as we have always wished to provide for our
people's peaceful and joyful celebration of this holy season and a hope-filled
welcome to a new year.”
Citing more reasons, the peace
adviser also underscored that the “cessation of hostilities will allow
unhampered rehabilitation of calamity-affected communities, many of which are
also conflict-affected, and sustain the goodwill generated from the positive
results of the collective disaster preparedness undertaken by government and
communities.”
The unilateral ceasefire also puts
in mind the much-anticipated Papal Visit in the Philippines early next year.
“With the silencing of guns, our preparations for and celebration of Pope
Francis' visit may be carried out with undistracted reflection and prayers and
deep hope for abundant blessings to be showered on our people,” said Deles.
The AFP and PNP, on the other hand,
assured that the security forces will continue to perform their functions in
ensuring the safety and welfare of the people for the duration of the
SOMO-SOPO, covering the country's Christmas and New Year's celebration.
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“After the difficult trials of the
past Christmas seasons, we pray for a peaceful, happy and hopeful season for everyone—a
chance for all families and communities to come together in celebration and
steadfast hope,” wished Deles. (OPAPP) |
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