Cambodian and Philippine military chiefs discuss border tensions and ASEAN role

PHNOM PENH, 13 February 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s armed forces chief has congratulated the Philippines on assuming the 2026 ASEAN chairmanship during talks with his Philippine counterpart in Phnom Penh.

General Vong Pisen, Commander in Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, met General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, on 12 February during the latter’s official visit.

Vong said he was confident the visit would strengthen defence ties and praised the Philippines for sending officers to serve on ASEAN observer missions during Malaysia’s leadership in monitoring a ceasefire linked to the Cambodia–Thailand border dispute.

He briefed Brawner on recent developments along the border and reiterated Cambodia’s position that the issue should be resolved peacefully, in line with bilateral agreements and international law.

He asked the Philippines to continue supporting efforts to ease tensions and reinforce the ASEAN Observer Team’s role in verifying agreements reached at a special border committee meeting in December 2025.

Brawner thanked his host for what he called a detailed briefing, saying it gave him a clearer understanding of the situation.

He noted the responsibility of leading the observer team and pledged neutrality.
Brawner is scheduled to visit the border area in Banteay Meanchey province on 13 February.