The Philippines is strengthening its partnership with Cambodia as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos begin a three-day state visit to Phnom Penh. King Norodom Sihamoni invited the couple, highlighting the importance of closer ties between the two nations.
On Sunday afternoon, Cambodian officials greeted the Philippine delegation at Phnom Penh International Airport. The visit marks the first time since 2016 that a Philippine president has traveled to Cambodia. Earlier this year, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet visited Manila, setting the stage for deeper cooperation.
President Marcos Jr. will meet Prime Minister Hun Manet on the second day of the trip. Their talks will cover trade, education, and joint efforts to combat transnational crime. Both sides also plan to strengthen cultural exchanges and expand cooperation in digital and economic development.
A major goal for Marcos Jr. is to win Cambodia’s support for the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship in 2026. He views this as essential for advancing Manila’s regional agenda on maritime security, stability, and sustainable growth. Philippine officials say Cambodia’s backing will add momentum to the country’s leadership bid.
Marcos Jr. stressed the significance of the visit before departing Manila. “Our friendship with Cambodia continues to grow, and we aim to build partnerships that benefit not only our two countries but also the wider ASEAN community,” he said.
The timing of the trip adds regional context. Thailand, another ASEAN member, faces political turbulence after the removal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The instability has created uncertainty about Bangkok’s role in future regional initiatives.
By strengthening ties with Cambodia, Marcos Jr. signals his intent to deepen alliances across ASEAN. The visit underscores his broader vision of promoting stability, cooperation, and economic opportunity throughout Southeast Asia.
