Starting 26 March 2020, the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), announced a truce seen to last until 15 April 2020.

This was a welcome development considering that government also declared a unilateral ceasefire days before the CPP-NPA’s declaration.

Both announcements were appreciated to give way to the aide needed by the Filipino people in addressing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

However, two days after the communists’ ceasefire declaration, reports claim an armed attacked allegedly initiated by the NPA in Barangay Puray in Rodriguez, Rizal on Saturday, March 28.

In the midst of a worldwide pandemic, the Commission on Human Rights condemns the said attack, which ultimately caused the loss of lives from both the government and rebels’ side. Two soldiers were also said to have been wounded from the firefight.

This atrocity contributes nothing but further danger to the lives of people in the communities and breaks the spirit of declaring ceasefire for a humanitarian cause.

At this point, we thank all those who genuinely extended help in combating COVID-19. We call on the communist rebels to adhere to their own ceasefire declaration. And, at all times, we urge both parties to let human rights and the general welfare of all as guide for their conduct, especially at this difficult time that our nation is facing. ###