By Alexis Romero
MANILA, Philippines — The government would resume peace talks with communist rebels if they agree to stop ambushing soldiers, extortion activities and the burning of properties, Malacañang said Monday.
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said there should be “compelling reasons” to continue the negotiations, which were terminated by President Rodrigo Duterte this month after the rebels staged a series of attacks against government forces.
“While it is understandable that suspicions linger about the motives of the parties on opposite sides of the ideological spectrum, some ‘compelling reasons’ need to be provided for talks to resume,” Abella said in a statement.
“Considering the unprecedented goodwill the president has shown, these actions from NDF (National Democratic Front) may provide compelling reason and could put at ease, to some extent, the apprehension of the military and the administration. After all when guns are silent we can better listen to each other,” he added.
The NDF represents the communist rebels in the peace negotiations with the government.
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