Philippine communist rebels welcome offered Cabinet posts

MANILA, Philippines – Communist rebel leaders have welcomed the Philippine president-elect's offer of four Cabinet posts or an alliance government.

This raises the possibility that the Marxist guerrillas, who demand an end to U.S. military presence in the country and free land distribution to farmers, could assume high positions in the government.

Tough-talking Rodrigo Duterte, who won the most votes according to unofficial counts, has offered the Communist Party of the Philippines Cabinet posts in the agriculture, environment, social welfare and labor departments.

The party said Wednesday that Duterte knows that policy changes are more important than the Cabinet spots.

It remains to be seen what common ground can be forged given wide gaps between the views of the rebels and those in the military and business communities.