In a significant diplomatic effort, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hosted Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in Cebu on May 7, 2026. The trilateral meeting aimed to address ongoing border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand.
Marcos highlighted the importance of maintaining open lines of communication and exercising restraint to prevent further escalation of conflicts. He emphasized a shared commitment to peace, stating, "It is time for peace and no longer the time for war."
Key Outcomes of the Meeting
During the brief press conference, the leaders expressed a mutual desire for constructive dialogue regarding their border issues. Both prime ministers reaffirmed their dedication to peaceful engagement and resolving disputes amicably.
This meeting comes in the wake of heightened tensions that flared in July 2025, prompting the Philippines to offer mediation support. Following a ceasefire agreement later in December 2025, the Philippine military now leads the ASEAN Observer Team, tasked with monitoring compliance with the peace deal.
There were many candid discussions about the border situation between Cambodia and Thailand. They have both reaffirmed the importance of maintaining open communication and avoiding actions that may escalate tensions.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
In his capacity as ASEAN chair, which he assumed in January 2026, Marcos indicated that further discussions would continue among the foreign ministers of Cambodia and Thailand to foster peace and stability in the region.