The military's Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) has dismissed the recent unilateral ceasefire declaration by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) as a hollow gesture that does not contribute to genuine peace in the region.
Military Leader Calls for Laying Down Arms
In a statement issued on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, Westmincom commander Lieutenant General Donald Gumiran labeled the ceasefire as one-sided. He emphasized that a temporary pause in fighting, declared without prior coordination and without abandoning armed struggle, fails to improve the actual security situation on the ground.
"Peace is not proven by unilateral ceasefire declaration, but by laying down arms and returning to the fold of the law," Gumiran stated firmly. He defined peace not as a simple pause in hostilities but as a permanent commitment to using lawful, peaceful, and democratic means.
Details of the CPP Ceasefire Order
The CPP central committee announced the temporary truce on Monday, December 15. The order covers its armed wing, the New People's Army (NPA). The ceasefire is set to take effect in two periods: from December 25 to 26, 2025, and again from December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026, coinciding with the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Reintegration Remains Open, But Operations Continue
Gumiran called on remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Group-NPA to surrender, reunite with their families, and lead peaceful lives. He assured that government reintegration programs are ready to assist those who sincerely want a fresh start.
However, he made it clear that "while reintegration remains open for those who choose peace, Westmincom will continue lawful operations to protect civilians and prevent lawless armed groups from threatening the peace and security of our communities."
The top general also appealed to communities, families, religious leaders, and local officials to use their influence to convince their loved ones within the rebel movement to surrender. He highlighted that their guidance and compassion are vital in ending decades of conflict.
Gumiran concluded that sustainable peace in Western Mindanao will only be achieved through collective action, accountability, and the complete abandonment of armed rebellion, not through mere declarations.
