The World - News from Dec. 24, 1986

The second stage of talks aimed at ending the 17-year Communist insurgency in the Philippines began with rebel negotiators demanding a coalition government and closure of U.S. military bases. The talks, part of a 60-day cease-fire agreement that went into effect two weeks ago, were adjourned after 35 minutes to Jan. 6 after each side outlined its proposals. An agenda for negotiations is to be decided after New Year’s Day. The National Democratic Front, an umbrella group representing the rebels, also called for land reform, dismantling of paramilitary forces and civilian control of the police. On the government side, negotiators proposed various economic and social reforms, including “amnesty with honor.”