Peace talks between Philippines government and communist rebels resume

Peace talks between the government of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and communist rebels aimed at ending one of Asia’s longest-running rebellions formally resumed Monday, with hosts Norway cautioning against a quick result.

Some 150,000 people have died in the conflict that began almost half a century ago.

“We are going to have five very demanding days here ... but I would like to congratulate the two parties on the resumption of the formal peace talks,” said Norwegian Foreign Minister Borge Brende.

The negotiations were facilitated by a cease-fire imposed by Duterte and a truce announced by the rebels that began on Sunday.

The peace process, which has dragged on for decades, broke down in 2001 when the Maoist rebels backed out after the US government – followed by the European Union – placed them on a list of terrorist organisations. It was resumed in 2011 under the leadership of Norway.

Although less numerous and less violent than Muslim separatist rebels in the country’s south, the Maoists have fought and outlived successive Philippine administrations for nearly 50 years, holding out against constant military and police offensives. They draw support from those dissatisfied with economic inequality, especially in the countryside, and the Philippines’ alliance with the US.