Reds must show sincerity

My letter is all about an article entitled “Reds vow to free 6 gov’t troopers soon” posted in one of the online news. Since I am a peace advocate, I am glad that the New People’s Army is releasing six prisoners of war (POW) which is a good sign of showing interest for the resumption of peace talks with the government.

Since, it was not new to us that peace talks between government and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) was discontinued after President Duterte lifted the ongoing peace talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF. This is because of the NPA’s withdrawal of the unilateral ceasefire agreement and attack of government troops, collecting revolutionary tax and burning equipment. The military launched an offensive against the rebels.

In my own thought, I’m just wondering how sincere is the leadership of the communist group in their willingness to resume peace talks with the government where in fact rebel atrocities are still continuing and if they want to release their prisoners of war as a goodwill why not right now? Why is it soon? Why not do the action right then and there? Is it just a trick?

I am calling on the leadership of the CPP-NPA-NDF, if you’re really for peace, show your sincerity and stop your extortion activities, stop attacking soldiers and civilians. Sit down on the negotiating table as a man of peace and not a man without dignity. — Eduardo Capinpin, Bocaue, Bulacan