ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) dismissed a unilateral ceasefire declared by communist rebels, calling the move a “one-sided” gesture that falls short of a genuine commitment to peace.

Lt. Gen. Donald M. Gumiran, commander of WestMinCom, said the military will maintain “focused and intelligence-driven operations” despite the declaration by the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

“These operations will persist while armed threats remain,” Gumiran said in a statement.

“Peace in Western Mindanao will not be achieved through declarations alone, but through collective action, accountability, and the complete abandonment of armed rebellion,” he added.

The military commander cited that the temporary ceasefire was issued without coordination with the government and argued that a pause in hostilities does not alter the security landscape if the rebels do not intend to abandon their armed struggle.

“Peace is not a pause in hostilities; it is a permanent commitment to lawful, peaceful, and democratic means,” Gumiran said.

The CPP-NPA has historically declared holiday ceasefires, which the Philippine government often views with skepticism, frequently accusing the group of using the downtime to regroup and recruit.

Gumiran urged remaining rebels to surrender and take advantage of government reintegration programs, which offer financial assistance and livelihood training to former insurgents.

He also appealed to local officials, religious leaders, and families to encourage rebels to “choose life over flight” and return to their communities.

“Your guidance, compassion, and influence are vital in bringing an end to decades of unnecessary suffering,” he said.