Manila, Philippines – National Security Adviser Eduardo Año announced on Wednesday that the Philippine government will maintain its terror designation on the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and its allies until a final peace agreement is reached. This decision is in response to the NDF’s demand for the removal of its terrorist tag by the government’s Anti-Terrorism Council, which was made in June 2021.
According to Philippines News Agency, any decision to revoke the terror tag cannot be made hastily and must follow a process. The government’s stance is contingent upon the willingness of the CPP-NPA-NDF to abandon the armed struggle. Año emphasized that if the communist group demonstrates sincerity in this regard, peace negotiations could proceed, potentially leading to a comprehensive amnesty and final peace settlement.
This statement came after the Philippine government and the NDF signed a joint agreement in Oslo, Norway, on November 23, committing to a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict. However, Año expressed reservations based on past experiences with peace negotiations, where the communist movement and its allies imposed numerous demands on the government, including the release of jailed leaders. He noted instances where released individuals did not return for peace talks but instead rejoined the insurgency.
Año clarified that military and law enforcement operations against the communist insurgents will continue. The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict will persist in implementing development projects in remote barangays. He also stated his reluctance to recommend a suspension of military operations or a ceasefire with the CPP-NPA, citing the group’s history of committing atrocities even during ceasefire periods, such as the Christmas season.
