MANILA, Philippines — The presidential peace adviser on Thursday said he hopes communist rebels will reciprocate a unilateral ceasefire that the government announced on Wednesday. In a statement, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said that the ceasefire, announced on Wednesday, "is a clear indication of his unwavering desire to bring sustainable and durable peace in the land despite the cancelation of peace negotiations." Statement of Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus G. Dureza on President Duterte's declaration of unilateral ceasefire. The secretary, who was also peace adviser during the Arroyo administration, called the ceasefire — traditionally observed annually — "is a brave step." READ: Malacañang declares Christmas ceasefireSchedule of truceDespite Lorenzana's recommendation against SOMO, the Department of National Defense on Thursday issued the schedule of the unilateral ceasefire this holiday season.

Source: Philippine Star December 21, 2017 03:56 UTC