Government, NDF to discuss resolution of conflict

MANILA, Philippines — The government and communist rebels have agreed to start fresh negotiations to end a decades-old armed conflict, raising hopes that a historic final settlement would be signed within the term of President Marcos.

The Marcos administration and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), the political wing of the communist insurgents, agreed to a “principled and peaceful resolution” to the conflict in a joint statement dated Nov. 23 and signed in Oslo, Norway.

“Cognizant of all serious socioeconomic and environmental issues and the foreign security threats facing the country, the parties recognized the need to unite as a nation in order to urgently address these challenges and resolve the reasons for the armed conflict,” the statement, formally called the Oslo Joint Communiqué, read.

“The parties agreed that a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict, resolving the roots of the armed conflict and ending the armed struggle shall pave the way for the transformation of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army- National Democratic Front).”

According to the statement, the two parties “acknowledged the deep-rooted socioeconomic and political grievances and agreed to come up with the framework that sets the priority for the peace negotiation with the aim of achieving the relevant socioeconomic and political reforms towards a just and lasting peace.”

“Such framework that will set the parameters for the final peace agreement shall be agreed upon by both parties. Consequently, we envision and look forward to a country where united people can live in peace and prosperity,” it added.

Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. and NDFP National Executive Council member Luis Jalandoni signed the statement. Presidential peace adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., former armed forces chief Emmanuel Bautista, NDFP negotiating panel interim chair Julieta de Lima and panel member Connie Ledesma witnessed the signing.

Speaking to reporters yesterday, Galvez said a final peace agreement with the communists is “very achievable” within Marcos’ term.

“The President is very positive. Based on our briefing,