Cambodia marks end of ASEAN observer mission, welcomes Philippines to lead next phase

PHNOM PENH, April 3, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has marked the completion of a regional observer mission monitoring ceasefire implementation, while welcoming the Philippines to lead the next phase of the effort, officials said Thursday.

At a ceremony on April 2, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister General Tea Seiha presided over a meeting and decoration event for the ASEAN Observer Team, which concluded its work in Cambodia.

The government expressed appreciation to Malaysia for leading the mission, praising its role in overseeing operations under the joint initiative involving international and regional observers.

Seiha said the mission, backed by ASEAN member states, had helped monitor and verify ceasefire agreements.

Observers conducted field visits to gather information, document developments and engage with stakeholders, aiming to reduce tensions and support peaceful solutions in line with international law.

Following Malaysia’s tenure, Cambodia said it welcomed the Philippines as the next country to assume leadership of the ASEAN Observer Team in 2026.

Defence Ministry spokeswoman Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said observers from Singapore, Malaysia and Vietnam joined the Philippines-led team in late March to monitor the situation along the Cambodia–Thailand border.

Their mission is to observe, verify and report on the implementation of measures outlined in recent joint statements.

Cambodia said it warmly welcomed the officers, stressing that transparency and accountability are vital to ensuring the ceasefire and agreed measures are fully implemented.