It is hoped that this recent pledge by the Philippine government together with the group to re-start the negotiation peace talks that will lead to the conclusion of one of the longest running wars in the world after a six year break, the Philippine government has reinstated a dialogue with the NPA, its armed wing of the CPP, this joint statement points out a significant progress toward ending the lengthy civil wars that have tormented the country for over five decades due to fundamental structural and political problems.
This ongoing conflict, which has killed more than 40 thousand people since its peaked in the 1980s, has greatly reduced the NPAs power. In reality, just part of its prior forces still exists. While pockets of resistance remain, there are indications that the surrender initiative by the government through financial assistance and livelihood program has worked well.
Right from 2017 when the former President Duterte abruptly ended the peace talks, it has been one event after another that further solidified instead of resolving the divides. He stated that that rebel had assaulted law enforcement and military facilities. Because the New People’s Army’s activities include attacks on civil populations, it has been acknowledged as a terrorist organization by the USA, the European Union, and the Philippine authorities.
However, as always in any irresolvable battle, the image changes from the burning newspaper titles to subtle and quiet practices which patch up worn social seams. Restorative justice initiatives have slowly bridged divisions and foster local peace building readiness for reconciliation in communities all over the country.
It is important that during the negotiating stage the two sides endeavour to foster trust and show commitment towards the peace process. However, the rebel group has stated that they have some demands that they need to be fulfilled and the Philippine government should adhere or there will be no talks on peace. The position also stresses that negotiations must continue as the indicated issues are resolved. A more comprehensive ambition lies behind the military chief of the Philippines stating that an agreed-on peace settlement will provide new emphasis on out-defence.
The announcement may not go directly but it represents a positive start towards the comprehensive peace agreement which has not been easy. The process of dealing with old grudges and preparing a foundation for economic and political changes is not easy on both sides. Several governments have had discussions about it since 1986, and this new initiative demonstrates the continuation of efforts to settle once and for all.
Since no external threat remains for disputed waters, fighting within themselves will be a waste as they face common danger and their unification in this instance is of ultimate importance. Lifting people out of poverty and healing historical divisions will give the nation resilience that billions spent on arm procurement cannot match.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that the move to have peace talks restarts is a sigh of relief for a country that has been embroiled in these conflicts for years on end. The task will not be an easy one because it will entail resilience, compromise, and a shared vision for a sovereign and peaceful Philippines. The international community hopes this will be the turning point for the people in Philippines to live peacefully and to sustain development.
By The European Institute for International Law and International Relations
References
Al Jazeera. (2023, November 28). Philippine government, Communist Rebels to revive peace talks. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/11/28/philippine-government-communist-rebels-to-revive-peace-talks
Flores, M., & Lema, K. (2023a, November 28). Philippine government, rebels agree to peace negotiations. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/philippine-government-rebels-agree-peace-negotiations-2023-11-28/
Olsen, J. M. (2023, November 28). Philippine government and Communist rebels agree to resume talks on ending their protracted conflict. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/philippines-communists-rebels-norway-peace-talks-edc4b997bd301fd6b574e0d950067d2b
