BACOLOD CITY-- The New People's Army (NPA) here will declare a holiday ceasefire against government forces if ordered by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

Ka Juanito Magbanua, NPA-Apolinario Gatmaitan Command spokesmann, said the group was ready to suspend offensives against government forces for Christmas and New Year's Day, despite a statement from the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) that there will be no ceasefire against the insurgents.