The Philippines voiced its concern over the intensifying border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia and called on both nations to settle the issue peacefully in accordance with international law. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized the country’s readiness to help de-escalate tensions and support peace efforts within the region.
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Rising Casualties and Displacement
In a statement issued Saturday night, Marcos underscored the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue.
“The Philippines views with concern the ongoing conflict between our two fellow ASEAN Member States and urge them to resolve the dispute in accordance with international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes,” the President said. “The Philippines stands ready to assist in any way to restore peace.”
Fighting broke out on July 24 near the disputed Ta Moan Thom Temple area, leading to exchanges of artillery fire that spread to at least six provinces along the border. According to local and international reports, more than 30 people have been killed, including civilians, and over 130,000 have been forced to flee their homes as violence intensified in recent days.
The Philippine Embassy in Bangkok has also advised Filipinos against traveling to affected provinces, including Ubon Ratchatani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Sa Kaeo, Buri Ram, Chantaburi, and Trat, citing safety concerns amid ongoing clashes.
ASEAN Role and Calls for Diplomacy
Marcos’ statement aligns with the Philippines’ commitment under the ASEAN Charter to promote peace and stability through non-violent means. As the country prepares to chair the ASEAN Summit next year, its proactive call for dialogue reflects broader regional concerns over escalating tensions.
In a parallel statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs called on both Thailand and Cambodia to “de-escalate the conflict” and reaffirmed the country’s willingness to support peace initiatives.
Josue Raphael J. Cortez, an ASEAN Studies lecturer at De La Salle–College of St. Benilde, described the Philippines’ stance as “a proactive effort” to encourage peaceful resolution.
“The fact that the Philippines expressed its willingness to support in any way the resolution of the conflict through peaceful means is our country’s openness to serve as a broker for peace between the warring factions,” Cortez explained.
He added that further escalation “may trigger actions that can debilitate Southeast Asian order and stability.”
With fighting still ongoing, regional leaders including Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim have proposed ceasefire talks, though the path to lasting peace remains uncertain.
