MANILA, Philippines, Feb. 14 (UPI) -- Two branches of the Communist party in the Philippines say they have declared a cease-fire to coincide with the resumption of negotiations with the government.
The Central Committee and the Military Commission of the Communist Party of the Philippines, and the National Executive Committee of the National Democratic Front said Saturday they would observe a weeklong cease-fire while formal peace talks with the Aquino government resume in Oslo, The Philippine Star reported in its Tuesday edition.
The cessation of offensive hostilities will take effect Tuesday through Feb. 21, the conclusion of the peace talks. The Communist Party of the Philippines said the move was made "as a confidence and goodwill measure to mark the resumption of the formal talks."
Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr. said the cease-fire will not prevent government troops from defending communities against insurgents, the Star said.
"This (cease-fire) will not preclude our soldiers from taking action in self-defense and to protect communities from armed threats," he said. "We hope that this gesture shall pave the way for winning the peace."
The Manila Bulletin said the 10th Infantry Division reported three pre-cease-fire incidents, including an ambush on civilians returning from a community rally in Compostela Valley province Sunday. One civilian was killed and five were wounded in the attack.
Two government soldiers and five Abu Sayyaf rebels were killed in a 3-hour firefight in Basilan Island as the government prepares for peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, a rival of the Abu Sayyaf group.
When Benigno Aquino III was inaugurated in June 2010, he challenged rebel groups to call a cease-fire and sit down for peace talks.
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