President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday reminded the Communist Party of the Philippines not to force him to release all political prisoners as soon as possible since the military “may not approve of such decision.”
He warned that the military might oust or kill him and that there be “no peace talks.”
In a speech delivered at the 38th National Convention of Philippine Association of Water Districts in Davao City, Duterte pointed out that the communists wanted the remaining 400 rebel detainees released amid peace talks.
“Para na akong nag-amnesty, which is usually given after a successful negotiation,” Duterte mentioned.
“Huwag ninyo akong ipitin because the military might not like it; the military would oust me, kill me, you have nobody talking to you,” he explained.
Duterte added that the military would always support the troops if they think they are right, wondering what it is there to show.
“So what is there to show? You want individual declaration of ceasefire. I’m just asking for a document which says that we are now in a ceasefire mode, signed by the government of Oslo who’s offering their good offices for us to negotiate,” he added.
Duterte also reminded the communists that he also need to consult with other branches of government every time he makes decisions.
“Now, if you ask too much, this is a country that is not authoritarian. I head the Executive Department but I consult people and the military especially in the matters. Of course, nobody stood up right on my face to say it is not good. But during our talks, on our coffee time relaxed moments, they would make suggestions. And you can get vibration of what they want,” he said.
Duterte also said in his speech that he has yet to decide if he would follow the CPP’s move to withdraw its unilateral ceasefire.
“So, nag-withdraw kayo sa ceasefire. So, am I supposed to do the same? Gaya-gaya, puto maya. Just go ahead. I will decide in the fullness of God’s time. Mahirap iyang akala ninyo ako lang kasi nanalo ako, tapos ako na. Hindi ako diktador ah,” he said.
It can be recalled that Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza mentioned that they have recommended to the President that the government continue to implement its unilateral ceasefire declaration.
