Año orders PNP to halt offensive ops vs CTGs amid COVID-19 pandemic

DILG Secretary Eduardo Año has ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to halt all offensive operations against Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) nationwide.

This directive is in response to President Duterte's unilateral ceasefire declared from March 19 to April 15, 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The DND will strictly implement the President's declaration of a unilateral ceasefire with the Communist Terrorist Group, effective March 19, 2020 to April 15, 2020.

DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana noted the CPP-NPA's record of using ceasefires to attack government and civilian targets, destroy property, and conduct extortion.

Despite this, the DND will implement the ceasefire as the government exerts efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Año instructed the PNP to redirect their focus and resources towards combating the spread of the coronavirus disease.

The PNP is tasked with enforcing the enhanced community quarantine in Luzon, prohibiting mass gatherings, and implementing other anti-COVID-19 measures.

While offensive actions are suspended, the PNP will maintain a defensive posture, only engaging in active defense if faced with immediate threats or attacks.