Govt, Reds closer to bilateral truce

HOPES that peace talks between the Philippine government and the communist rebels will bear fruit were rekindled with a declaration by the National Democratic Front (NDF) that it is willing to sign a formal bilateral ceasefire agreement despite President Rodrigo Duterte’s obstinate refusal to release political prisoners.

Government chief negotiator Silvestre Bello 3rd welcomed the statement of NDF adviser Luis Jalandoni that they are willing to sign an agreement but that it will only take effect upon the release of political prisoners.