In the face of severe damages left behind by Typhoon Ursula, the Communist Party of the Philippines advises commands and units of the New People’s Army to conduct emergency relief operations and assist the masses most especially in badly-hit areas. Red commanders and fighters may devote ample time within the duration of the unilateral ceasefire to work with revolutionary mass organizations in rehabilitating farms and rebuilding homes.

Thousands of hectares of agricultural lands in Mimaropa, Western and Eastern Visayas were badly damaged. This aggravates the situation of peasant families who have already spent for the planting season. Fisherfolks in the calamity areas are also in danger of losing their livelihood with equipments and fishing grounds destroyed.

The Party also calls on its allied revolutionary organizations in the National Democratic Front of the Philippines to coordinate with relief and aid institutions in bringing help to the masses. Well-meaning individuals and organizations who are in respite for the traditional holidays may be encouraged to join in relief operations.

Commemorations of the Party’s 51st founding anniversary to be held in the coming days may also take up relief and rehabilitation efforts.

While extending assistance, the NPA must remain vigilant against any hostile actions of the Duterte government’s military and police forces, and operate in accordance with the guidelines set forth in the ceasefire declaration.