The pronouncements of President Rodrigo Duterte calling for a ceasefire with New People’s Army (NPA) communist rebels as the government strives to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) highlights his genuine concern for the public.
“The pronouncement of the President (calling for a ceasefire with the NPA) manifests his yearning for the safety and well-being of our countrymen in the face of Covid-19 pandemic,” said Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos, Jr., in a statement sent to reporters Tuesday.
Santos said this was brought about by the President’s desire to ensure that the unimpeded delivery of government service to the people shaken by the effects of Covid-19.
“He desires that on this trying time, everyone — including the enemies of the state — works to ensure an unimpeded delivery of government services to our people distraught by uncertainty due to this worldwide affliction,” he said.
With this in mind, Santos urged everybody to heed the President’s call to do their part in this fight against the Covid-19 threat with commitment and dedication.
“By working together, we will emerge triumphant as a people and as a nation. And you can count on your AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines to be at the forefront,” he added.
In a televised address to the nation on Monday night, Duterte called for a ceasefire with the rebels and urged them to cooperate in the fight against Covid-19. (PNA)
