NDFP calls Duterte's ceasefire premature, insincere

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) has declared President Duterte's unilateral ceasefire declaration as premature, insincere, and false, citing a lack of clear basis for reciprocation.

NDFP Chief Political Consultant Jose Maria "Joma" Sison stated that while communication exists between the negotiating panels, there is no agreement yet on reciprocal unilateral ceasefires.

Sison questioned the basis of the ceasefire, specifically whether it was genuinely aimed at national unity against the COVID-19 pandemic.

He expressed concern that the NDFP is not assured that the ceasefire is intended for the protection of vulnerable sectors and the resolution of the pandemic as a medical issue.

The NDFP views the ceasefire declaration as insincere and a potential "psywar trick" unless sufficient assurances are provided by the government.

Sison pointed to the 'militarist lockdown' of Luzon and ongoing 'red-tagging, abducting, and murdering' of activists as evidence of the President's lack of sincerity.

Despite the criticisms, Sison expressed hope that the negotiating panels could reach clear terms for the benefit of the people.