MACTAN, Cebu — Beyond the global uncertainty brought about by the conflict in the Middle East, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) continues to grapple with major geopolitical challenges within the region.
Among the most pressing issues facing the regional bloc are the political crisis in Myanmar following the military takeover that led to the detention of former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, the ongoing border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand, and continued tensions in the South China Sea.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. acknowledged these challenges during the plenary session of the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit on Friday, emphasizing the need for stronger collective action among member-states.
"We meet at a defining moment for our region and the global community," Marcos said.
"The international geopolitical landscape continues to be marked by uncertainty and heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly, by the grave situation in the Middle East," the President told the Southeast Asian leaders.
MYANMAR SITUATION
ASEAN has yet to reach a consensus on recognizing the elections in Myanmar, which saw military leader Min Aung Hlaing assume the presidency and formalize the military’s hold on power.
The military takeover in February 2021 led to the detention of Aung San Suu Kyi, who was sentenced to a total of 33 years in prison on multiple charges. She was later transferred to house arrest, with her sentence reportedly reduced to 27 years.
As ASEAN Chair, the Philippines earlier urged Myanmar “to provide greater transparency regarding this transfer by allowing Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to communicate with her family, which would demonstrate a genuine commitment to national reconciliation.”
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, serving as the ASEAN Chair’s Special Envoy on Myanmar, is expected to brief leaders on the latest developments in the country.
Lazaro had earlier requested limited access to the detained leader.
Myanmar is being represented at the summit only by the permanent secretary of its Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
THAILAND-CAMBODIA BORDER ISSUE
Another major concern confronting ASEAN is the long-running border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand.
The territorial conflict centers on areas surrounding the 11th-century Preah Vihear Temple and escalated into armed clashes in 2025, leaving more than a hundred people dead and displacing thousands of civilians.
Despite a ceasefire reached in October 2025, tensions remain high.
Ahead of the leaders’ summit, Marcos facilitated a trilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in a bid to create “a meaningful space for dialogue” on the border issue.
Following the meeting, both countries agreed to direct their respective foreign ministries to continue efforts aimed at rebuilding trust and easing tensions.
"The Prime Ministers have agreed to task their respective foreign ministers to sustain this open and candid dialogue and to discuss more directly with one another in detail constructive approaches to prevent escalation, foster the conditions for peace and stability, and to safeguard the well-being of their peoples," Marcos said.
"We express our confidence in the ability of both Cambodia and Thailand to resolve the matter amicably and to manage their border differences peacefully in the spirit of ASEAN solidarity and unity," he added.
Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul committed to the deescalation by walking the path of peace.
“Thailand and Cambodia are two neighboring countries. It is best that we avoid conflict — it only brings losses and suffering," he said.
Now is the time for us to look forward and walk this path together toward peace. This requires sincerity, good faith, and determination,” the Thai leader added.
Meanwhile, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet commended the Philippines’ constructive leadership in promoting regional peace, stability, and unity.
"Cambodia remains firmly committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes based on international law and existing agreements. Cambodia stands ready to move forward, constructively, swiftly, and in good faith," Manet said.
SOUTH CHINA SEA
Aggressive actions and competing claims in the South China Sea remain another major challenge for Southeast Asia.
While negotiations continue on a proposed Code of Conduct between ASEAN and China, the parties have yet to adopt a legally binding agreement despite years of discussions.
Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Dominic Xavier Imperial said the COC would still form part of summit discussions, although no finalized document is expected since negotiations are being handled separately.
Marcos, however, has so far avoided directly discussing the South China Sea in his speeches during the summit, with this year’s ASEAN agenda focusing heavily on energy security.
CHARTING THE PATH FORWARD
As ASEAN Chair for 2026, Marcos said this year’s theme, “Navigating the Future Together,” reflects the urgent need for unity and cooperation amid growing uncertainty.
“It is a stark reminder that, in an increasingly uncertain world, our collective action has never been more urgent,” Marcos said.
“We must continue to uphold the principles of ASEAN centrality and solidarity and pursue practical cooperation,” he added.
“It is in this spirit that we gather today to pursue concrete outcomes and forge a collective path, with particular focus on three urgent and interrelated priorities.”
Marcos also underscored the importance of implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
“As we push forward the first year of the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, we are reminded that our region is strongest when we turn shared challenges, however daunting they may be, into shared purpose,” he said.