The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) supports the humanitarian call for the immediate release of all elderly, ailing and political prisoners, as an urgent measure to decongest the overcrowded jails to help prevent the rapid spread of the Corona-19.

The call for the release of prisoners has been issued by the United Nations, various international agencies, as well as various local organizations and agencies.

The immediate release of at least 23 NDFP peace consultants and personnel, in particular, will be welcomed by the revolutionary forces as a measure in line with the UN Secretary General’s call for a global ceasefire and will be considered as a positive gesture of peace.

The Party calls for an end to the mass arrest and filing of charges against violators of the police-imposed curfew. To date, more than 75,000 have been accosted and close to 25,000 arrested. The Party denounces the police abuse against the thousands who have subjected to unjust punishment. There are also widespread reports of bribery.

The Party condemns the curtailment of the people’s right to voice their opinion online or in the streets. The Party also denounces the continued surveillance, red-tagging, harassment and intimidation against activists and critics of the regime.