AFP spox calls Zarate's UN appeal support 'cheap pitch'

Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) called a "cheap pitch" the support of Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate for the UN's call for a 90-day humanitarian pause in conflicts.

Parlade accused Zarate of hallucinating, stating that the New People's Army (NPA), which he claims Zarate's group allies with, has continued attacks on government forces despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

Zarate had urged the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines to support the UN Security Council's appeal for a respite from armed conflicts to focus on the COVID-19 crisis.

Parlade highlighted that the NPA has allegedly ignored previous ceasefire calls and even boasted about killing 38 soldiers during the enhanced community quarantine period.

He further pointed out that the NPA had declared an end to their unilateral ceasefire and a shift to offensive mode starting May 1, questioning the credibility of Zarate's support for a humanitarian pause.