The leftist rebel group Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) announced on Saturday that it would extend unilateral ceasefire in areas hit by typhoon Haiyan for another month until Christmas Eve.

The CCP Central Committee said the truce, which practically began on Nov. 8 and was originally set to expire on Sunday night would remain in effect up to Dec. 24.

The ceasefire covers the New People's Army's (NPA) regional commands, such as in Eastern Visayas, Panay, Central Visayas and Negros Island.

"The ceasefire declaration is being extended by another month in view of the extent and gravity of the devastation of the supertyphoon that has been made worse by the gross negligence and inutility of the ruling Aquino regime," the group said in a statement.

The NPA, armed wing of the CPP, has been waging a guerrilla war in the countryside for more than four decades. Military estimates the NPA strength at more than 4,000 men scattered in more than 60 guerrilla fronts throughout the country. Endi