OPINION: Writing as contribution to just and lasting peace

By Carol P. Araullo, Independent Cooperator to the NDFP Negotiating Panel Response to “Contra en punto” written by Edwin G. Espejo, in reaction to my 17 October 2016 Business World column “Streetwise – Thorny issues emerge in Oslo peace talks” IT IS UNFORTUNATE that Mr. Edwin G. Espejo, a member of the GRP Peace Panel Communications Group, chose […]
NDFP says ceasefire holding, but…

THE National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Negotiating Panel said the respective unilateral ceasefire declarations by the revolutionary group and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) are holding despite reports of violations by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). In a press release, NDFP […]
Joma explains why the peace talks are always important

In this video, NDFP chief political consultant Jose Maria Sison explains that the peace talks must achieve substantial benefits for the Filipino people before a permanent ceasefire may be discussed.
NDFP-GRP close 2nd round of talks with commitment to release political prisoners

OSLO, Norway–The Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) promised to deliver on its commitment to release political prisoners after four days of intense negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) which ended today.
Bayan happy with Duterte’s foreign relations and peace talks policies

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Secretary-General Renato Reyes cites two important achievements in the first 100 days of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s administration — asserting Philippine sovereignty against US domination and resuming peace talks to address the roots of the armed conflict. Reyes however added that Duterte’s anti-drug campaign needs socio-economic reforms and not killings.
Bello announces early conclusion of 2nd round of talks

In this video, government chief peace negotiator Silvestre Bello III answers questions on the status of the formal peace negotiations between the GRP and the NDFP on its third day.
Second round to finish early; parties approve PCR and EHDF outlines

OSLO, Norway–The second round of formal talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines will finish a day earlier with the approval of outlines of at least two of the three remaining substantive agenda in the peace negotiations.
Joma explains the status of the ongoing peace nego after 2nd day

The parties determined they have the political will to continue with the peace negotiations, maganda lalo na on the side of the GRP. They have a president who said he is a left president. We appreciate the release of theJASIG-protected consultants. But I also pointed out that a big incentive to accelerate the peace process […]
GRP-NDFP negotiations on social and economic reforms, release of political prisoners face delay

Oslo, Norway–Negotiations on social and economic reforms (SER) as well as amnesty for political prisoners faced delays prompting the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) to conclude their second day of negotiations early. The parties’ reciprocal working committees for SER adjourned by midday after failing to […]
NDFP, GRP open 2nd round of formal talks; present separate focus

OSLO, Norway — The second round of formal talks here between the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) opened at six o’clock in the evening (Oslo time) after nine hours of delay. Punctuated by a standing ovation by both parties to long-time and recently-resigned […]