Philippines, communist rebels seek peaceful solution to armed conflict

By Necva Tastan

ISTANBUL (AA) - The Philippines government and the country's communist rebels signed a joint statement Tuesday in Oslo, agreeing on a “principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict.”

According to the Manila-based Philippine News Agency, the statement emphasizes a need to unite to address the challenges and resolve the reasons for the armed conflict.

“The parties agree to a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict. Resolving the roots of the armed conflict and ending the struggle shall pave the way for transforming the CPP-NPA (New People’s Army)-NDFP,” said Philippines’ Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez at a news conference.

Galvez pointed out that both parties acknowledged “deep-rooted” socio-economic and political issues and agreed to create a framework outlining priorities for peace talks.

He added that the government and the Front will likely meet by the first quarter of 2024.

“We cannot set a timeline for that. It is dangerous to do so because (the transition has to be) sustainable,” said Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro.

“Our legislators will have to participate in the process,” he added.