MANILA, Philippines — Catholic prelates expressed hope that the holiday ceasefire between the government and the communist New People’s Army (NPA) will lead to lasting peace in the country.

Butuan Bishop Juan De Dios Pueblos said that being a man of peace, he is hoping that people will take advantage of the situation to work for peace beyond the Christmas season.

Military Ordinariate Bishop Leopoldo Tumulak also echoed the sentiment of Pueblos as he urged both parties to keep their lines open to dialogue.

“I hope and pray they continue to dialogue and keep on communicating no matter what happens because listening with empathy and speaking with honesty and mutually recognizing theirs and the people’s needs based on values are steps to peace,” he said in an article posted on the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

Tumulak said that openness of heart and honesty and real concern for the community is a way to peace, lasting peace.

Bacolod Bishop Vicente Navarra said that he would welcome “a long lasting ceasefire.”

“This can only be brought about by both parties talking together and agreeing on terms without having any hidden agenda from any side,” Navarra said.

Last Friday, Malacañang announced a 19-day Christmas ceasefire with the communist New People’s Army (NPA) from December 16 to January 3, the longest truce in 10 years.

The government said the ceasefire will serve as a prelude to the resumption of peace talks between the two parties in February.