56-Year Conflict Ceases for Christmas

At Christmas, a rare pause in the ongoing conflict between the Philippine government and the Maoist New People’s Army (NPA) occurs, marking a tradition of ceasefires since 1986 amidst a global rise in violence. This Christmas truce, reflecting a biblical message of peace, allows both sides to independently declare unilateral pauses in hostilities. Although such ceasefires rarely resolve conflicts, they foster long-term trust necessary for peace agreements. The motives behind these pauses often include propaganda benefits for both parties involved.

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