Leaders from various political parties in the House of Representatives on Tuesday released a statement expressing support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s initiative to restart peace negotiations with communist rebels, following Vice President Sara Duterte's public criticism of the move.

Party leaders said this "historic move" would pave the way for the country's attainment of lasting peace and sustainable development.

"As the united voice of the House of Representatives, representing all political parties, we collectively express our unwavering support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s initiative for peace and national unity," the joint statement read.

"This unity in purpose reflects the strength of our democracy and the resilience of our nation. President Marcos's call for peace transcends political boundaries and speaks to the core of our shared values as Filipinos."

The party leader stressed that while they have diverse perspectives and ideologies, they stand united to uphold the common good for the interest of the Philippines.

The signatories of the joint statement include Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe and Deputy Speakers Kristine Singson-Meehan and Camille Villar, among others.

The joint declaration came a day after Duterte blasted the resumption of peace talks with communist rebels.

"Mr. President, the government's statement with the NDFP in Oslo was an agreement with the devil," Duterte said in a TV speech.

In late November, several rebel groups, including the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front, were granted amnesty under Proclamations 403, 404, 405, and 406 as part of the Marcos administration's peace initiatives.

The President signed the proclamations to encourage the rebel groups "to return to the folds of law."

But, according to the VP, communist rebels will only use the peace overtures to betray the government and deceive Filpinos.

"We have proven in history that they are not serious and they do not have sincerity in the matter of peace… We appeal to your power to review these proclamations and agreements," Duterte said.

The VP asserted that peace and reconciliation can be pushed through "without capitulating to the enemies."

However, House party leaders said the government's peace initiative "is a call for understanding, cooperation, and collective action towards harmony and prosperity."

Makabayan bloc member and ACT Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro branded Duterte's statement as anti-peace, and that she advocates for war and intolerance of different beliefs.

"It is alarming that the Vice President has labeled the government's recent statement with the NDF in Oslo as an 'agreement with the devil' and has expressed opposition to the grant of amnesty to former rebels. These statements reflect a lack of understanding of the complexities of the peace process and a disregard for the aspirations of the Filipino people for just and lasting peace," Castro said.

Hours after the House statement came out, the joint committee of human rights and on justice adopted House Concurrent Resolutions 19, 20, 21, and 22 and its corresponding committee report, all concurring with the President's proclamations of granting amnesty to former rebels.

Party leaders then called on Filipinos to join the "noble pursuit" in an effort to turn the aspirations of peace, unity and progress into reality.

Speaker Martin Romualdez said the House aims to adopt all four concurrent resolutions before Congress goes on Christmas break.