Photo credit: DND

Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. minced no words when he described any potential ceasefire with the CPP-NPA-NDF as a concession to "terrorists and criminals."

Teodoro's remarks paint a vivid picture of the insurgent group’s current standing in the country's political landscape. He referred to the CPP-NPA-NDF as a "Jurassic group," suggesting their ideologies and tactics are outdated and irrelevant in today’s modern political discourse.

For the Defense Secretary, any talk of a ceasefire isn’t about peace—it’s about desperation. "It’s a last-ditch measure for them to find relevance," he emphasized.

The CPP-NPA-NDF, a group declared as a terrorist organization by the Philippine government, has long been embroiled in armed conflict with state forces. While ceasefires have been broached in the past, Teodoro’s stern stance signals a no-nonsense approach to dealing with groups that continue to challenge the country’s peace and security.

What does this mean for the peace process? Teodoro’s position underscores the administration's hardline stance: negotiations with groups like the CPP-NPA-NDF must not come at the cost of national security.

For many, his words resonate with a broader sentiment that peace efforts should be rooted in accountability and justice, rather than appeasement. As the government continues its fight against insurgency, one thing is clear: the road to peace must prioritize the safety and welfare of the Filipino people.