The Philippine Army has downplayed the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army’s (CPP-NPA) declaration of a holiday ceasefire, calling it “mere propaganda” that lacks sincerity and credibility.

Army spokesperson Louie Dema-ala said the military views the unilateral ceasefire announcement as a publicity tactic, noting that similar declarations in the past were followed by continued armed activities on the ground.

“The Philippine Army firmly views the Communist Party of the Philippines’ so-called unilateral ceasefire as mere propaganda, lacking both sincerity and moral credibility,” Dema-ala told the Daily Tribune on Christmas Day.

He added that repeated ceasefire pronouncements by the communist movement have been used to gain political leverage, while their armed units allegedly continue attacks, extortion, and other activities that harm civilians and undermine peace.

Dema-ala said there would be no letup in security operations against remaining members of the CPP-NPA despite the ceasefire announcement.

“We will continue to maintain a state of readiness and conduct security operations to safeguard communities, while remaining open to any genuine, coordinated, and verifiable steps toward peace that demonstrate sincerity and respect for the rule of law,” he said.

Earlier, the Communist Party of the Philippines announced that all units of the New People’s Army had begun implementing the first phase of a nationwide ceasefire in time for Christmas and the Party’s 57th founding anniversary on December 26.

According to the CPP, the NPA suspended military operations against the Armed Forces of the Philippines starting at midnight on Christmas Day until a minute before December 27.

The Party said the ceasefire was declared in solidarity with the people as they observe simple holiday celebrations “amid grave social and economic conditions.”

The CPP also claimed that various NPA units had signified compliance with the directive, including the Leonardo Panaligan Command in Central Negros Island.

“The LPC-NPA in Central Negros strongly orders all NPA units, militias and other guerrilla units under it to firmly and strictly implement the ceasefire,” NPA–Central Negros spokesperson JB Regalado said.

The CPP said regional NPA commands in Southern Tagalog and Eastern Visayas issued similar orders, despite reports of recent armed clashes between government forces and communist rebels in those areas.

Meanwhile, Dema-ala emphasized that the Philippine Army remains steadfast in its mandate to protect the public and uphold the Constitution.

“The Philippine Army remains committed to protecting the people and upholding the Constitution. We will continue to maintain a state of readiness and conduct security operations to safeguard communities, while remaining open to any genuine, coordinated, and verifiable steps toward peace that demonstrate sincerity and respect for the rule of law,” he stressed.

Dema-ala also urged remaining NPA members to lay down their arms and choose the “path of peace.”

“Surrendering is a chance to rebuild lives, reunite with families, and take part in lawful programs that support reintegration into society,” he added.