Philippines plays peacemaker in Cambodia-Thailand meeting in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines – Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Thursday evening, May 7, that a trilateral meeting with his counterparts from Cambodia and Thailand in Cebu paved the way for “some agreements” being reached and “ways forward” being discussed as the Philippines steps into a more active role in managing border tensions between the two Southeast Asian countries. 

“There were many candid discussions about the border situation between Cambodia and Thailand. They have both reaffirmed the importance of maintaining open communication, exercising restraint, avoiding actions that may escalate tensions, and continuing efforts towards peaceful dialogue and constructive engagement,” said Marcos in a press conference a day before leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations were set to meet for the 48th ASEAN Summit. 

“I believe this was possible because of a very clear, fervent belief by both leaders that it is time for peace and no longer the time for war.”

The Philippine President, who officially took on the role of ASEAN chair in January 2026, was flanked by both Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in the brief press conference. Each prime minister delivered their own statements separately and took no questions after. 

Marcos opened the briefing by noting that the Philippines arranged the meeting “in order to provide a meaningful space for constructive dialogue on their bilateral border issues.”

Hostilities erupted at the border between Cambodia and Thailand in late July 2025 over a long-standing dispute. Manila had said in December 2025, or shortly before it officially took over chairmanship of the bloc, that it was ready to mediate talks between the two countries. In late December 2025, the two agreed on a ceasefire that has been maintained thus far. 

Recently, the Philippine military officially took over as leader of the ASEAN Observer Team tasked to monitor compliance with the peace deal. 

Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers are expected to continue talks “to sustain this open and candid dialogue and to discuss more directly with one another in detail constructive approaches to prevent escalation, foster the conditions for peace and stability, and to safeguard the well-being of their peoples,” said Marcos. – Rappler.com