Philippine foreign minister flags silence on Cambodia–Thailand conflict

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CEBU, Jan 29, 2026 — Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa P. Lazaro said she was surprised that no journalists raised questions about the Cambodia–Thailand conflict during a recent press conference, despite the dispute having claimed more than 100 lives in both countries.

Speaking at the close of the briefing, Lazaro noted that media attention had focused largely on the South China Sea Code of Conduct and the situation in Myanmar, while the Cambodia–Thailand border issue was not mentioned.

“You all focused only on the Code of Conduct and Myanmar,” Lazaro said. “I expected questions on other issues, such as the Thailand–Cambodia border. But since you did not ask, thank you very much.”

The Cambodia–Thailand dispute has been a key issue within ASEAN following two major clashes in July and December last year. A ceasefire reached on Dec. 27 remains fragile, with several areas inside Cambodian territory still reported to be under Thai military control.

There have also been repeated confrontations between frontline troops, and Thai forces have been reported to have reinforced positions, including the digging of additional trenches near sensitive areas such as Preah Vihear.

Despite the absence of media questions, Lazaro said ASEAN foreign ministers had underlined the importance of the ASEAN Observer Team in verifying and monitoring the implementation of the ceasefire.

She welcomed the joint statement issued after the third special meeting of the General Border Committee between Cambodia and Thailand on Dec. 27, 2025, and called for its full and effective implementation to ensure peaceful dispute resolution in line with international law.

Lazaro also welcomed the extension of the observer team’s mandate and noted steps taken by Malaysia to ensure a smooth transition of the coordination role to the Philippines in its capacity as ASEAN chair.