From Presidential Spokesperson Ernie Abella – On the cancellation of the 5th round of peace talks in The Netherlands

The government of the Philippines will not proceed with the scheduled 5th round of peace negotiations in The Netherlands.

This decision was reached in the light of the latest public announcement by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to accelerate and intensify its attacks against the government due to the President’s declaration of martial law in Mindanao.

We question the sincerity of the CPP/NPA/NDFP, if they truly are in pursuit of peaceful coexistence. The Duterte administration would rather pursue the path of genuine dialogue to build a nation worthy of its citizens.