The Philippines is set to play a more prominent role in advocating peace in Myanmar as it prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2026, signaling its commitment to regional stability and dialogue, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs.
As regional tensions continue in Myanmar, Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is expected to underscore support for ceasefire efforts at the upcoming ASEAN Summit Leaders’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on May 26–27.
The Philippines’ stance aligns with ASEAN’s ongoing diplomatic push to resolve the crisis through peaceful means while respecting the bloc’s long-standing principle of non-interference.
Department of Foreign Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary Dominic Xavier Imperial said the Philippines and current ASEAN chair Malaysia are coordinating closely to ensure continuity in the regional approach to the Myanmar situation.
He noted that the issue is a priority in the Philippines’ broader agenda as the incoming chair.
While ASEAN has faced criticism over its handling of the Myanmar crisis since the military coup in 2021, the bloc has maintained a collective response focused on humanitarian assistance and dialogue.
Imperial highlighted the Philippines’ active participation in providing aid to Myanmar following a recent earthquake, emphasizing the country’s humanitarian engagement in line with ASEAN efforts.
The Philippines’ upcoming leadership in ASEAN places it in a strategic position to help facilitate diplomatic progress in Myanmar, particularly as international attention remains fixed on resolving the ongoing conflict and addressing the humanitarian situation.
Business News Asia