Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 25) — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it killed nine suspected communists on Christmas Day amid the two-day ceasefire declared by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

The AFP said its Fourth Infantry Division on Monday morning conducted a military offensive against suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA)—the armed wing of the CPP—in the areas around barangays Can-ayan, Kibalabag, Kulaman, and Mapulo, all located in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

Authorities also seized eight firearms from the NPA members.

The CPP announced a ceasefire beginning Christmas Day as it marks its 55th anniversary on Dec. 26.

On Dec. 25, the military said it would continue to be watchful and conduct peacekeeping operations even during the CPP’s ceasefire.

Late last month, the Marcos administration and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines—the CPP’s umbrella organization—agreed to resume the peace talks.