Cebu: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul have pledged to enhance economic and bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and Thailand. The commitment was made during a meeting in Cebu following the conclusion of the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Leaders Summit and Related Meetings.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos and Anutin reaffirmed their resolve to further strengthen the longstanding partnership between Manila and Bangkok. The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) stated that the two leaders exchanged views on enhancing bilateral relations through high-level exchanges, trade and economic cooperation, people-to-people ties, and cooperation in combatting transnational crimes.

During the bilateral meeting, the leaders also discussed regional and global issues of shared concern and renewed their commitment to ASEAN solidarity, regional peace, and stability. In April, Marcos congratulated Anutin on his reelection and expressed optimism over stronger Philippine-Thailand cooperation, particularly in key sectors such as energy and food security.

The Philippines and Thailand established diplomatic relations on June 14, 1949, and have since maintained close cooperation in trade, security, tourism, and cultural exchanges. Thailand is among the Philippines' major trading partners in Southeast Asia, with both countries seeking to further expand investments and economic collaboration. The two nations are also founding members of ASEAN, which promotes regional cooperation and integration among member-states.

Marcos, this year's ASEAN chairperson, also reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the regional bloc remains 'a force for peace, growth and opportunity for our peoples.'