Lorenzana backs Duterte move to suspend peace talks with Reds

July 21, 2017

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana supports President Rodrigo Durterte’s decision to suspend peace negotiations as he questioned the sincerity of the communists. Lorenzana questioned the sincerity of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) amid a series of attacks allegedly done by the rebels. “I trust the integrity and honesty of our government peace panel. I know that they are doing what they think are right for the country based on the constitution and advocacy of the president. I, however, question the sincerity, integrity, and motives of the other side,” Lorenzana said. “That is why I fully support the President’s decision not to resume the formal peace talks unless the CPP-NPA stop their attacks and extortion activities, and reign in the warmongers among them,” he added. Lorenzana admitted he was saddened with the suspension of the peace negotiation but he emphasized that the communists should stop their violent and extortion activities. “It’s sad that the peace talks was stopped because we all want to end this 48 years of fighting that cause difficulties for our people especially the extortion and violent activities of NPA,” he said. “The government has proven its sincerity in dealing with the communist movement. This, in turn, is reciprocated by double talk and treachery… we need to make it clear. That is why I ask the leaders and members of the CPP-NPA: do you really want peace or do you want to continue down the bloody path of war?” Lorenzana added. “We are all for peace… but we can only talk about peace when both sides mean what they say,” Lorenzana noted. (Robina Asido/DMS)