AFP inclined to declare holiday truce with Reds
The Armed Forces of the Philippines is inclined to declare a cease-fire with communist insurgents during the holiday season, AFP spokesman Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner said on Friday. He said AFP chief Gen. Victo Ibrado was in favor of having a SOMO or a suspension of offensive military operation again this year. "This is a yearly practice that we have been doing, this is to allow our troops to celebrate Christmas..When we have peace on this day, we are able to celebrate Christmas in a peaceful manner and we can focus on the real meaning of Christmas. We do this every year, even without the consent of the other side (communists)," said Brawner, AFP public affairs office chief. Last year's truce covered December 24, 25, 31 and January 1. However, the military has yet to make a formal recommendation for a truce to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo this year, according to Brawner. - GMANews.TV