ZAMBOANGA CITY, Dec. 17 -- The Western Mindanao Command on Wednesday dismissed the Communist Party of the Philippines' unilateral ceasefire declaration, stating that a temporary pause without abandoning armed struggle does not constitute genuine peace.

Lt. Gen. Donald Gumiran, Westmincom commander, said the four-day ceasefire scheduled for Christmas and New Year's does not change the security situation on the ground.

"Peace is not proven by unilateral ceasefire declaration, but by laying down arms and returning to the fold of the law," Gumiran said.

The CPP central committee announced the ceasefire on Monday, to take effect from December 25 to 26 and from December 31 to January 1, 2026.

Gumiran called on remaining New People's Army me...