MANILA, Philippines — Communist guerrillas in the Philippines declared a Christmas truce Friday after the government made a similar overture despite a recent breakdown of peace talks. Despite their separately declared ceasefire, both sides have ordered their forces to brace for possible attacks. The rebel group “is only too aware of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ treachery, attacks and deception,” said Madlos. The rebel move comes despite President Rodrigo Duterte halting talks with the guerrillas last month to protest continuing rebel attacks. The guerrillas have scuttled peace talks in the past after accusing the government of helping the United Nations and the United States designate them as terrorists.

Source: National Post December 22, 2017 14:12 UTC