Philippines to maintain Myanmar engagement while urging progress on ASEAN peace plan

Mizzima

The Philippines has said it will continue engaging with Myanmar’s military-led quasi-civilian government while pushing for progress on a regional peace plan, following the election of junta chief Min Aung Hlaing as president.

Manila called for “renewed momentum” toward ending violence in Myanmar, while reaffirming support for ASEAN-led efforts to address the crisis, according to a statement from the presidential palace.

“The Philippines remains committed to support ASEAN’s collective efforts,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said, urging implementation of the bloc’s Five-Point Consensus, which calls for a cessation of violence, dialogue, and humanitarian access.

At the same time, officials said the Philippines would maintain diplomatic engagement with Myanmar’s authorities and other stakeholders, including through Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, in her role as the ASEAN chair’s special envoy to Myanmar.

The position reflects a dual-track approach of continued engagement alongside calls for political and humanitarian progress, as regional governments navigate Myanmar’s prolonged crisis.

Separate reports claim Manila would continue ties with Myanmar despite the recent political developments. This indicates that cooperation channels will remain open following the military leader’s consolidation of power.

Min Aung Hlaing, who seized power in a 2021 coup, was elected president by a military-dominated parliament, formalising his leadership under a civilian-style system.

The Philippines’ stance aligns with broader ASEAN efforts to mediate the conflict, though the bloc has struggled to enforce its peace plan amid ongoing fighting between the military and resistance groups.

While Manila’s continued engagement signals pragmatic diplomacy, its call for renewed momentum on the Five-Point Consensus highlights persistent concerns over the lack of progress in resolving the crisis.