Manila: The Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division will not yield to the declared unilateral ceasefire by the communist terrorist group (CTG) or any armed group. In a media conference on Monday afternoon, the 3rd Division's Public Affairs Office chief, Capt. Jessie Jun Ebalan said their operations will continue and are on a heightened alert this holiday season.

According to Philippines News Agency, Capt. Ebalan emphasized that the division does not recognize the ceasefire declaration, maintaining their commitment to ongoing operations aimed at safeguarding communities, particularly in remote and urban areas. He pointed out that past declarations by the CTG have been violated by the group, posing risks not only to the troops but also to civilians.

Ebalan further stated that the 3ID's stance aligns with that of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, asserting that "government security operations are never dictated by pronouncements from armed groups." The priority remains to preserve peace and security, preventing the CTG and other armed elements from exploiting the holiday season for regrouping or rearming.

Additionally, the division echoes the Department of National Defense's view that the CTG's announcement is a bid to retain relevance. Ebalan urged communities to remain vigilant, collaborate with authorities, and reject any deceptive efforts by groups aiming to disrupt peace.

Despite the dismantling of all CTG fronts in Panay and a significant reduction in their numbers over the past two years, Capt. Ebalan mentioned that the 3ID continues its mission to track down and eliminate the remaining elements of the New People's Army in the region, particularly in relation to the CTG's upcoming founding anniversary on December 26.