Cambodia, Philippines Pledge to Elevate Bilateral Cooperation Across Key Sectors

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept. 8, 2025) — Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across defense, trade, education and regional diplomacy.

During a high-level meeting at the Peace Palace on Sept. 8, Hun Manet emphasized Cambodia’s longstanding ties with the Philippines, grounded in mutual respect and shared interests. He noted that the partnership has grown steadily across multiple sectors, including security, investment and people-to-people exchanges.

“In the regional framework, I reaffirmed Cambodia’s full support for the Philippines as it takes on the ASEAN chairmanship next year,” Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet said. “We stand ready to contribute to reinforcing ASEAN unity and centrality.”

The two leaders also witnessed the signing of three bilateral agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in law enforcement, higher education and air services.

Hun Manet expressed appreciation for the Filipino community in Cambodia, acknowledging their contributions to socio-economic development. He extended an invitation for more Filipinos to visit Cambodia as tourists, investors and business partners.

President Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos arrived in Phnom Penh on Sept. 7 for a three-day state visit at the invitation of King Norodom Sihamoni. Their arrival was welcomed by Cambodia’s minister of tourism and senior government officials.

On Monday morning, Marcos was also received by Samdech Hun Sen, acting head of state and president of the Cambodian Senate, as part of the official program.

The visit marks a renewed chapter in Cambodia–Philippines relations, which were formalized in 1957 and continue to evolve through shared regional priorities and economic cooperation.