Gov’t cancels JASIG with Reds

The government has canceled the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). 

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza on Tuesday transmitted a letter to CPP founder Jose Maria Sison and NDF peace panel chairperson Fidel Agcaoili informing them of the JASIG termination. 

Gov't terminates JASIG with CPP-NPA-NDF pic.twitter.com/fyCtIjhsql

— Trisha Macas (@trishamacas) February 7, 2017

The JASIG, which was signed by the government of the Philippines and the NDF in February 1995, guarantees safety and immunity to negotiators, consultants, and other personnel joining the peace talks. 

The termination came after President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the peace talks with the communists and ordered the arrest of the NDF consultants who were released to join the peace talks.

Still committed to peace

But despite this development, the government peace panel (GRP), in a statement, said the Duterte administration remains committed to the peace process by finding opportunities which will benefit conflict-affected communities. 

“Despite the cancellation of the peace talks, the Duterte administration remains committed in its peace efforts by continuing with resolve to explore all opportunities to intensify implementation of genuine reforms for the benefit of the people, particularly socio-economic programs in conflict-affected communities,” the panel said. 

"It shall also continue to pursue other paths to peace and undertake all forms of peace initiatives and peacebuilding efforts at the national, regional and local levels to keep the peace," it added.

The government panel likewise assured the public of the government's pursuit to stop attempts to disrupt law and order and attain lasting peace. 

“We assure our people that the Government will continue its vigilance in the preservation of law and order and in protecting our people against insurgent activities and threats of terrorism, and pursue the enhancement of our democratic institutions," it said.  — with Joseph Tristan Roxas/RSJ/KBK, GMA News