By Vijian Paramasivam
PHNOM PENH, Sept 8 (Bernama) — The Philippines’ President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s visit to Cambodia reinforces Manila’s foreign policy in embracing ASEAN member states in tackling regional security, disaster management and sustainable development.
The visiting President is holding talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on a wide range of bilateral issues and to shore up support as Manila prepares to assume ASEAN leadership in 2026.
“As fellow ASEAN Member States, we share the duty of safeguarding ASEAN centrality and unity amid regional and global challenges.
“I deeply appreciate Cambodia’s steadfast support for the Philippines as we prepare to assume the Chair of ASEAN in 2026, as well as for our bid for a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council,” Marcos said in his speech on Monday.
A statement from the Philippines’ Presidential Communications Office on Sunday said both leaders will discuss diversifying trade, combating transnational crimes, boosting tourism, and strengthening collaboration in agriculture, education, and air connectivity.
Marcos, along with First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos, is on a state visit to Cambodia from September 7 to 9.
International Relations Institute of Cambodia Director-General Dr Kin Phea said Marcos’ talks with Manet transcended beyond the traditional bilateral subjects to include regional stability with ASEAN centrality in the forefront.
“As the Philippines gears up to assume the ASEAN chair, strengthening ties with Cambodia can help Manila demonstrate solidarity and leadership in addressing collective regional concerns, while supporting Cambodia’s interests in upholding international law and regional peace.
“This visit thus not only reinforces bilateral relations, but also underscores shared strategic priorities within ASEAN, highlighting avenues for deeper cooperation and mutual assistance,” Dr Kin told Bernama.
He also said Cambodia could leverage this high-level visit to seek the Philippines’ support on pressing regional issues, including the ongoing border tensions with Thailand.
The Philippines will take over ASEAN leadership from current chair Malaysia after Myanmar opted out to host the bloc’s chairmanship in 2026 due to internal instability.
The ASEAN chair is rotated among the 10-member countries in alphabetical order. The Philippines last hosted the ASEAN Summit in 2017.
During the morning bilateral talks, both governments pledged to expand cooperation in agriculture, digital economy, renewable energy and trade.
Cambodia-Philippines diplomatic relations date back to 1957. About 7,500 Filipinos are currently working in Cambodia.
— BERNAMA
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