Alexis Romero
MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang is optimistic that the clash between the military and communist rebels in North Cotabato over the weekend would not affect the ongoing peace talks.
At least one member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed during a 30-minute encounter with soldiers in Makilala town on Saturday. The rebels claimed eight soldiers died during the gun battle, an allegation denied by the military.
The firefight happened while negotiators from the government and the National Democratic Front, political arm of the rebels, are holding the third round of peace talks in Rome.
“No, it should not affect any of the ongoing talks,” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella told reporters yesterday. “The talks are ongoing and we are intent on focusing on settling the matter.”
He added that the unilateral ceasefire declared by the government still holds despite the incident.
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