By Ghio Ong
MANILA, Philippines - The government yesterday rejected a call by the National Democratic Front (NDF) to suspend military and police operations in exchange for the New People’s Army (NPA)’s release of military and police captives.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the government is maintaining its position that rebels should first declare a unilateral ceasefire and no other condition should be imposed to free the hostages.
In an earlier statement, the NDF urged the government to order a 10-day suspension of military and police operations in areas where four NPA hostages – Private First Class Edwin Salan, Sergeant Solaiman Calucop, Pfc Samuel Garay and Police Officer 2 Jerome Natividad – would be released.
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