MANILA — In a significant stride towards lasting peace, the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front (NDF), the political wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), have officially committed to a “principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict.”
The historic joint statement, signed in Oslo, Norway on Nov. 23, signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing peace talks.
Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. highlighted the shared recognition of the urgent need to address serious socioeconomic, environmental issues, and foreign security threats, uniting as a nation to overcome these challenges.
The agreement aims to resolve the deep-rooted socio-economic and political grievances that have fueled the armed conflict.
Both parties pledged to develop a framework outlining priorities for peace negotiations, envisioning relevant socioeconomic and political reforms. This framework, setting the parameters for a final peace agreement, will be collaboratively agreed upon. The ultimate goal is to create a nation where a united people can live in peace and prosperity.
The Joint Communique, a product of informal discussions facilitated by the Royal Norwegian Government, represents a significant milestone in the quest for peace, reconciliation, and unity among the Filipino people.
Key figures from both sides, including Presidential Peace Adviser Galvez, Secretary Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr., Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, Luis Jalandoni, Julieta de Lima, and Coni Ledesma, signed the document.
Galvez clarified that this marks a new beginning rather than a resumption of talks, with the expectation of both parties meeting in the first quarter of 2024. He emphasized that the joint communique’s signing will have no immediate impact on government operations against armed groups.
AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. mentioned the anticipated dissolution of approximately 20 weakened guerilla fronts by the year’s end, emphasizing the ongoing nature of government programs against armed groups.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. emphasized the need for legislative involvement in the formal transition toward peace.
Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan stressed the inclusive and growth-inducing nature of peace efforts, while Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. underlined the pivotal role of maintaining peace and order in economic development.
Galvez expressed optimism that these exploratory talks would pave the way for a final peace accord with the NDF, built on good faith, goodwill, and sincerity.
(AI?MNM)
