AFP backs UN call for global ceasefire as COVID-19 rages

March 24, 2020

  The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) supports the United Nations secretary general's call for global ceasefire amid the spread of the coronavirus disease in different parts of the world.

"We could not agree more with the UN SecGen’s call for a global ceasefire. The Philippine government has already declared a unilateral ceasefire with the NPA midnight of March 19, 2020. And the AFP, from its leadership down to the last element on the ground, adheres to it religiously," said AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. on Tuesday.

"We have trailed our focus on this virulent but unseen enemy that has claimed the lives of 33 of our countrymen and thus far infected 501. And this development pushes us harder," he said. 

"We will press on and assist government’s campaign to save our people from this deadly disease. We will not be deterred  by the threat of  attacks on our troops by this internationally acclaimed Communist Terrorist Group," he added. 

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called on warring parties across the world to lay down their weapons and to focus on the fight against the Covid-19.

Santos said "in this time of great need, our people can depend upon the AFP to close ranks to man the barricades against COVID-19."

"We appeal to our fellow Filipinos to be heroes in saving lives by staying home," he said. Robina Asido/DMS