Cebu, Philippines – Thailand and Cambodia reached several agreements and discussed ways forward in addressing their border issues, including the continuation of foreign ministers discussion, during a trilateral meeting facilitated by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on the sidelines of the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu on Wednesday.
Marcos said the discussions between Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul reflected a shared commitment to dialogue, restraint, and the peaceful management of tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
“During this meeting, I would venture to say that many subjects have been covered, some agreements have been reached, and ways forward have been discussed,” Marcos said during a joint press conference following the talks.
Marcos said the meeting was arranged through the Philippines’ “good offices” as ASEAN chair for 2026 to provide “a meaningful space for constructive dialogue” on the bilateral border situation.
“This meeting has demonstrated how our relationship in ASEAN is built on mutual respect, trust, solidarity, and understanding,” Marcos said. “There were many candid discussions about the border situation between Cambodia and Thailand.”
Marcos said both leaders reaffirmed the importance of maintaining open communication and avoiding actions that could escalate tensions.
“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,” he said.
The president said the discussions succeeded because both leaders shared “a very clear, fervent belief” that the region should move away from conflict.
“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,” Marcos said.
As part of the agreements, Marcos said both countries tasked their foreign ministers to continue “open and candid” discussions aimed at preventing escalation and preserving stability.
“The prime ministers have agreed to task their respective foreign ministers 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,” he said.
The trilateral meeting also affirmed the continued role of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT), which monitors and verifies agreements involving both countries.
Marcos welcomed the extension of the AOT’s mandate for another three months until July and said the Philippines would continue serving as coordinator.
“We welcome as well the extension of the AOT’s mandate for another three months,” he said.
“The Philippines underscores its commitment to fulfill its obligation as coordinator of the AOT,” he added.
The Thai-Cambodian border dispute has triggered periodic tensions and military confrontations over the years, particularly around contested areas near the Preah Vihear temple along their shared frontier.
The issue resurfaced in 2025, prompting ASEAN efforts to encourage restraint and dialogue between both governments.
Marcos said ASEAN remains committed to supporting peaceful engagement and confidence-building measures.
“We express our confidence in the ability of both Cambodia and Thailand to resolve the matter amicably and to manage their border differences peacefully in the spirit of ASEAN solidarity and unity,” he said.
“The entire ASEAN family remains ready to continue supporting efforts to promote dialogue, confidence building, and the maintenance of peace and stability in the region,” he added.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul both thanked Marcos for facilitating the talks.
Hun Manet described Marcos’ role as “constructive” in promoting regional peace and unity, while Anutin expressed appreciation for the Philippines’ efforts in organizing “frank and candid discussions” between the two sides.
