EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro at the sidelines of the 59th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Manila. Official handout.

Manuel Mogato | July 25, 2026

MANILA — The European Union (EU) has announced a 1.05 billion-peso, or €15 million, non-lethal maritime security assistance package to the Philippines to enhance its capabilities to detect and monitor foreign intrusions.

EU High Representative Kaja Kallas announced the funding when she attended the 59th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Manila. EU is among the bloc’s strategic partners.

Kallas said the maritime security package was the first-ever assistance measure under the European Peace Facility for the Philippines.

“The first measure to be implemented in the Indo-Pacific region marks a major milestone in the European Union-Philippines security and defense cooperation,” Kallas said in a statement. (Also read: Europe and NATO’s interests in the Indo-Pacific region)

The assistance would improve the Armed Forces’ maritime domain awareness capabilities, particularly the Navy and Air Force. (Also read: US promises $100 million in military aid to the Philippines)

For instance, the Philippine Navy would increase its capability to detect, monitor, and analyze illegal activities within the country’s 200-mile exclusive economic zones.

It would also develop a more comprehensive maritime picture, enhance early warning, and support more effective coordination and response by naval and maritime security forces.

“More than an investment in capabilities, the assistance measure is an investment in the European Union-Philippines partnership, in mutual trust, in regional stability, and in a shared commitment to peace and security,” Kallas added.

The EU and the Philippines held their first security and defense dialogue in June 2025, which advanced collaboration on maritime security, cybersecurity, hybrid threats, foreign information manipulation, and interference.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro thanked the European Union for providing a maritime security package when he held a meeting with Kallas on the sidelines of the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC).

“This initiative reflects the growing strategic partnership between the Philippines and the EU, and underscores the shared commitment to a peaceful, stable, and rules-based maritime order founded on international law,” a defense department spokesman, Arsenio Andolong, said in a statement.

“The non-lethal maritime surveillance and monitoring equipment, together with capacity-building and specialized training that the EU will provide to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), will help enhance the country’s Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and enable the AFP to monitor better the activities across the Philippines’ maritime zones, improve interoperability with like-minded partners, and support the protection of our national security interests and sovereign rights.”

Footage of a Chinese Coast Guard firing a water cannon at a Philippine vessel off Bajo de Masinloc on Friday, July 24, 2026.

Anna Mogato | July 25, 2026

MANILA — China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels harassed and fired water cannons at six Philippine public vessels on their way to a contested shoal in the West Philippine Sea to deliver fuel subsidies and food supplies to Filipino fishermen in the area.

The harassment was the second consecutive day near Bajo de Masinloc (BDM) as China escalates its illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous (ICAD) actions in the disputed West Philippine Sea.

“Despite these [ICAD] actions, all [Philippine Coast Guard] and [Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources] personnel are safe, and the vessels are sustaining their presence in the area in continued support of Filipino fisherfolk exercising their legitimate rights in their traditional fishing ground,” Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela said in his X (formerly Twitter) post.

“Bajo de Masinloc is an integral part of the Philippine Territory, and its surrounding waters form part of the country’s territorial sea and exclusive economic zone.”

Tarriela, a Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said that the government vessels were carrying out a government program, Kadiwa ng Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda (KBBM), which supports the safety and security of Filipino fisherfolk in their traditional fishing ground.

This latest harassment comes a day after a CCG vessel also fired its water cannon at Philippine ships on its way to BDM. Shortly after, a CCG vessel conducted a dangerous maneuver at BRP Datu Paiburong.

On Monday, the CCG personnel injured a Philippine Navy serviceman in Ayungin Shoal after the CCG boats went close to BRP Sierra Madre to take photos and videos. (Also read: Marcos summons Chinese ambassador over Ayungin Shoal incident)

The continued attack coincided with the 59th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers Meeting, where China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Manila to hold a bilateral discussion with Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro. (Also read: Rubio says China escalates action on Ayungin Shoal)

“The 2016 Arbitral Award has affirmed that BDM is a traditional fishing ground of Filipino fisherfolk, whose rights cannot be lawfully impeded by any foreign power,” Tarriela said.

The earliest attack occurred at 6:26 AM, when CCG vessel 3107 fired its water cannon about 400 meters away at BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408), while it was conducting a maritime patrol near 15 nautical miles northeast of BDM.

Earlier, MRRV-4408 had been followed by “no fewer than six CCG vessels, alongside Chinese Maritime Militia vessels operating in the area,” Tarriela added.

An hour later, CCG vessel 21581 also attacked BFAR vessel BRP Datu Paduhinog (MMOV 3017). At the same time, it was on its way to conduct its regular monitoring, control, and surveillance mission 12 nautical miles northeast BDM.

Tarriela said that the CCG vessel had gotten close to the BFAR vessel’s port bow, almost causing a collision.

“It is worth noting that the CCG vessel had deliberately switched off its Automatic Identification System (AIS), concealing its identity in violation of international regulations on safety of navigation,” Tarriela added.

A short while later, CCG 21581 again hit Datu Padihunog, and a third time at around 8 AM, when the Philippine vessel temporarily lost its satellite internet connectivity for over 30 minutes.

At the same time, Chinese Maritime Militia vessel 00318 was reported to have been pulling a rope approximately 100 meters directly behind BRP Datu Sumakwel (MMOV 3019), a move Tarriela said posed a threat to the ship’s navigation.

At around 8:55 AM, CCG vessel 3303 also fired its water cannon 300 meters behind BRP Datu Cabaylo (MMOV 3001).

Tarriela said that the PCG and the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea remain steadfast in adhering to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’ s directive to protect Filipino fisherfolk and defend the country’s sovereignty “without escalating tensions and in accordance with international law, particularly with the UNCLOS.”

Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz pitching the Philippines as a “highly accessible and profitable destination” for Chinese travelers last March 19, 2026, shortly after the Philippine government granted visa-free entry for up to 14 days. Official handout.

Rommel C. Banlaoi | July 25, 2026

MANILA — Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz has recently taken to social media to promote the spirit of cooperation and friendship between Manila and Beijing.

This is an innovative diplomatic strategy that leverages his unique background as a veteran journalist in China and his intimate knowledge of the country’s hard‑won accomplishments over the past decades. FlorCruz’s digital diplomacy illustrates how media skills can be harnessed to advance foreign policy objectives in an era when public opinion is shaped as much by online narratives as by official communiqués.

FlorCruz’s messaging appears guided by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fundamental proposition: maritime disputes are not the sum total of Philippine–China relations. This proposition, shared by China as well, recognizes the seriousness of disagreements in the South China Sea but insists that the bilateral relationship must be understood more broadly. Trade, investment, education, culture, and peopletopeople exchanges are equally vital pillars of engagement. By echoing this framing, FlorCruz helps ensure that the Philippines is not confined to a single issue relationship defined solely by conflict.

The ambassador’s social media posts highlight cooperation, shared progress, and friendship. In doing so, he counters prevailing narratives of confrontation and hostility. His ability to communicate in ways that resonate with ordinary citizens, both Filipino and Chinese, stems from his journalist’s instinct for storytelling. He knows how to frame complex realities in accessible language, how to humanize diplomacy, and how to project goodwill without sounding naïve. This is precisely the kind of public diplomacy needed to balance the harsher tones of geopolitical competition.

Yet digital diplomacy also has its pitfalls.

A recent example is the controversial “monkey video” released by China Daily, widely criticized in the Philippines for its offensive undertones. Such media missteps can inflame nationalist sentiments, undermine goodwill, and reinforce perceptions of disrespect. For Filipino audiences, the video was seen as a symbol of insensitivity that could erode trust. For diplomats like FlorCruz, the challenge is to avoid being entangled in such narratives and to deal with their consequences in ways that preserve the spirit of cooperation. (Also read: Philippine, Chinese FMs meet at sidelines of ASEAN Ministerial Meeting)

Avoidance requires vigilance. Philippine diplomats must be careful not to amplify or legitimize content that can be construed as derogatory. They must instead highlight constructive stories through shared achievements, cultural exchanges, and cooperative projects that reinforce mutual respect. FlorCruz’s own social media strategy, grounded in positive messaging, is a model of how to steer clear of provocative narratives. By focusing on friendship and cooperation, he ensures that the Philippines’ digital diplomacy does not get dragged into controversies created by others.

Dealing with the consequences of missteps such as the monkey video requires a balanced, nuanced, and constructive perspective. On one hand, the Philippines must register its displeasure when content is offensive, signaling that respect is nonnegotiable. On the other hand, it must avoid allowing such incidents to derail the broader relationship. The key is to contextualize—to treat the video as an unfortunate episode that does not define the entirety of China’s engagement with the Philippines. By responding firmly yet constructively, diplomats can mitigate the damage while keeping the door wide open for cooperation. (Also read: Marcos summons Chinese ambassador over Ayungin Shoal incident)

The significance of FlorCruz’s approach lies in its timing. The Philippines is navigating a complex regional environment marked by intensifying U.S.–China rivalry, heightened maritime tensions, and domestic debates over foreign policy direction. In this context, projecting friendship and cooperation seeks to engage China on multiple fronts, that it values dialogue, and that it refuses to let disputes, or offensive videos, define the entirety of the relationship. This is a message that resonates with ASEAN’s broader preference for constructive engagement and regional stability. (Also read: The Philippines as ASEAN Chair Should Build Bridges of Cooperation Through a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea)

Ultimately, FlorCruz’s efforts highlight the importance of a nuanced, multi‑dimensional foreign policy. The Philippines cannot afford to reduce its relationship with China to a single contentious issue, nor can it allow offensive media portrayals to dominate the narrative. By promoting friendship and cooperation, FlorCruz advances a vision of Philippine foreign policy that is pragmatic, balanced, and forward‑looking. It is a vision that aligns with Marcos Jr.’s proposition and reflects the Philippines’ broader interest in stability and prosperity. (Also read: Friends to all, enemies to no one)

Ambassador FlorCruz’s digital diplomacy should therefore be viewed as a strategic effort to broaden the narrative, to remind both publics that disputes and missteps are only parts of a larger relationship, and to project a vision of engagement that is constructive rather than confrontational.

In an era of heightened tensions, digital diplomacy is a valuable contribution to Philippine foreign policy. It demonstrates that diplomacy is building bridge and that in the digital age, those bridges can be built one post at a time.

Rommel C. Banlaoi, PhD, is the President of the Philippine Society for International Security Studies and Director of the Philippines-China Studies Center at Diliman College.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and US President Donald Trump meet at the White House during President Marcos’s working visit to the US last July 2025. Official handout.

Manuel Mogato | July 24, 2026

MANILA — US President Donald Trump has assured President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that he would help resolve the sea dispute between the Philippines and China when he meets Beijing’s leader in Washington.

Trump’s assurances were made during a phone call with Marcos, according to Presidential Communications Secretary Dave Gomez.

“President Trump assured President Marcos that he will take up the concerns of the Philippines in his next meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping,” Gomez said in a statement. (Also read: Rubio says China escalates action on Ayungin Shoal)

Gomez said President Marcos had a phone conversation with the US president on Thursday, and “they discussed the current global, economic and security.”

Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to visit Washington later this year for a discussion with President Trump, the second face-to-face meeting this year. Trump visited China early this year. (Also read: Dialogue with China Is Imperative: Trump–Xi Summit Proved It)

The phone conversation came a day after President Marcos met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at Malacañan Palace.

It was during a meeting with Rubio that President Marcos raised the Philippines’ concern about the escalating tensions between Manila and Beijing in the West Philippine Sea. (Also read: ASEAN makes headway in Myanmar, Code of Conduct negotiations)

On Tuesday, President Marcos summoned the Chinese top diplomat in Manila, Jing Quan, to express Manila’s sentiment about the violent confrontation between the Philippines and China on Ayungin Shoal.

A day earlier, members of China’s Coast Guard struck a Philippine Navy sailor with a wooden baton, resulting in a serious head injury.

President Marcos visited the two naval personnel in a military hospital and awarded them medals. He also handed out financial aid.

In a separate press conference, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Marcos relayed to China’s ambassador his intent to “reset” the Philippines’ relations with China.

Castro said the president has also been seeking an end to violent confrontations in the disputed waters.

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary and current ASEAN Chair Ma. Theresa Lazaro during the ASEAN Plus Three Post-Ministerial Conference on Thursday, July 23. Official handout.

Anna Mogato | July 24, 2026

MANILA — The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has made significant progress on two regional issues that cast doubt on the bloc’s relevance.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro, who also chairs this year’s ministerial meetings, said ASEAN foreign leaders are nearing an agreement on a regional Code of Conduct, and finding a political solution on Myanmar’s problem.

Regarding Myanmar, Lazaro said she plans to visit the country in the fourth quarter to assess the progress of ASEAN’s five-point consensus mechanism to normalize the situation.

It will also be a humanitarian mission as she plans to visit detained leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and thousands of displaced people.

As the ASEAN special envoy to Myanmar, Lazaro also called on Myanmar’s generals to end violence and allow humanitarian aid to displaced communities. (Also read: Philippines calls on Myanmar to free political prisoners)

“But I think the impact here is really trying to reach out to the vulnerable communities in Myanmar, and of course, permits will be asked from the Junta government that now talks about their ability to really reach out to us,” Lazaro told journalists at the end of the 59th ministerial meeting in Manila.

Despite concerns that the ministers are being lax on their stance in Myanmar, Lazaro said that ASEAN leaders are still standing by the five-point peace plan.

“It’s still the five-point consensus that is still the foundational document that we are looking at during the discussions with the foreign minister of Myanmar; there have been a lot of questions on their compliance with the five-point consensus,” Lazaro said.

“It may not happen yet, but let’s see what compliance they can give; ASEAN is patient. ASEAN is still looking for whatever they can give.”

Likewise, Lazaro said ASEAN saw some positive movement in their talks with China regarding the Code of Conduct (COC) on the South China Sea.

The Philippines has repeatedly maintained its stance that the COC will be concluded within the year, before the ASEAN chairship is handed over to Singapore.

“If we see [it] from our point of view, it’s the progress being made,” she said. “The terms of reference are very important because, [back then it was] still the definition of, let’s say, self-restraint.”

The COC, which stems from the 2002 Declaration of Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, has had multiple milestones under discussion.

Now, Lazaro said that there had been a growing consensus among parties, aided by the political will of other ASEAN member states and China, to conclude the talks.

“I think you know very well that we have monthly meetings. These negotiations have not been done this way since the start of January,” Lazaro added.

“There have been monthly meetings of the negotiators, and this is now part of the political will that we intend to finish this code of conduct by the end of the year.”

Lazaro had also met China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the AMM to discuss the continued tensions on Ayungin Shoal and Bajo de Masinloc.

Lazaro clarified that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s positions during their bilateral talks are not part of the discussions on the Code of Conduct, which is based on the 1982 landmark agreement, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Among the outcomes of the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting are the joint communiqué, which detailed the ministers’ response to regional and global issues, the joint statement on the Middle East and the guidelines on engagement between ASEAN and high contracting parties relating to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC).

On Friday, the ministers will hold a high-level conference with high contracting parties to the TAC, with four new acceding countries signing the peace pact: Poland, Romania, Sweden and Lithuania.

Photo courtesy of Philippine Coast Guard.

Manuel Mogato, Anna Mogato | July 23, 2026

MANILA — A Chinese Coast Guard vessel on Thursday fired water cannon on Philippine vessels delivering fuel and food supplies to local fishermen near Bajo de Masinloc.

Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela, a Coast Guard spokesman, said the incident was the second Chinese attack this week after Chinese Coast Guard personnel struck two Philippine Navy members with a wooden stick on Monday in Ayungin Shoal in another part of the West Philippine Sea. (Also read: Marcos summons Chinese ambassador over Ayungin Shoal incident)

Minutes after the water cannon incident, another Chinese Coast Guard vessel crossed about 500 meters in front of a Philippine Coast Guard vessel, BRP Datu Paiburong (MMOV 3018), in what was described as a dangerous maneuver. (Also read: Rubio says China escalates action on Ayungin Shoal)

“These actions violated the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and endangered Filipino personnel engaged in a purely humanitarian undertaking,” Tarriela said.

The Philippine government vessels completed the distribution of fuel and food packs to Filipino fishing boats in the area by mid-morning.

Another Coast Guard vessel, BRP Datu Sumakwel (MMOV 3019), also continued patrol and resupply operations.

The incident was witnessed by a Coast Guard plane on a maritime domain awareness flight over Bajo de Masinloc.

During the flight, the aircraft received a radio challenge from Chinese forces while operating within the Philippine exclusive economic zone.

The aircraft monitored three CCG vessels, two Chinese maritime militia vessels and one People’s Liberation Army-Navy vessel in the area.

At the sidelines of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Manila, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi lodged a “strong protest” against the Philippine serviceman’s “reckless act” against the China Coast Guard vessel at Ayungin Shoal.

In a statement released by China’s Embassy, Wang had a “candid” discussion on the Ayungin incident with Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro.

“Wang Yi stated that attempts to provoke trouble with the help of external forces will only make the Philippines reap what it sows,” the embassy statement said.

“Regrettably, every time China and the Philippines are poised to hold dialogue, some people within the Philippines, particularly some forces in the military and police, would deliberately create incidents to derail the dialogue process. These people harbour ill intentions.”

Manuel Mogato | July 23, 2026

MANILA — The Philippines’ foreign minister is set to visit Myanmar in late 2026 to assess the progress in the country’s political situation and hold talks with various stakeholders.

Maria Theresa Lazaro, who is also the special envoy to Myanmar, may have a meeting with detained political leaders, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, to assess progress in the political situation.

“We looked forward to the Special Envoy’s plan to visit Myanmar in the last quarter of the year,” the ASEAN joint statement said.

Lazaro’s visit will help ASEAN foreign ministers to “conduct our comprehensive review of the 5PC implementation and submit our recommendations to the 49th ASEAN Summit” in November.

The foreign ministers’ deputies are still discussing proposals to appoint a long-term permanent envoy to Myanmar. (Also read: ASEAN ministers set November deadline on Myanmar proposals)

At the end of the 59th ASEAN ministerial meeting in Manila, the 10 foreign ministers commended Lazaro’s efforts to engage with various stakeholders in Myanmar.

Lazaro’s visit to Myanmar will be part of the “possible elements for assessing progress in Myanmar, in line with the 5 point consensus which serve as a reference for ASEAN to consider further steps in its continued engagement with Myanmar.”

ASEAN has prohibited Myanmar to take part in regional meetings, inviting only its senior diplomats to interact and engage with the regional bloc. In early July, Lazaro and other ASEAN foreign leaders met with Myanmar foreign minister and leaders of various ethnic rebel groups. (Also read: Is Thailand Bridging the Gap between ASEAN and Myanmar or Lending Legitimacy to the Junta?)

“We expressed our deep concern over the ongoing conflicts and humanitarian situation in Myanmar, and encouraged progress on the implementation of the ASEAN Leaders’ Five-Point Consensus (5PC),” the ASEAN joint statement read.

“We denounced the continued acts of violence against civilians and public facilities and urged all parties involved to take concrete action to immediately halt indiscriminate violence, exercise utmost restraint, ensure the protection and safety of all civilians and civilian infrastructures, and create a conducive environment for the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people in need in Myanmar without discrimination, and inclusive national dialogue.”

ASEAN also “reaffirmed our united position that the 5PC remains our main reference to address the political crisis in Myanmar and further reaffirmed the relevant Leaders’ decisions.”

ASEAN foreign ministers also welcomed the continued progress in the provision of humanitarian assistance to Myanmar and “noted the conclusion of the three phases of Myanmar’s general elections and the succeeding developments.”

Foreign Ministers at the 27th ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers Meeting. Official handout.

Anna Mogato | July 23, 2026

MANILA — Southeast Asian foreign ministers have set alarm bells ringing on the looming food and energy security amid the El Niño phenomenon and continued tensions in the Middle East.

In a joint statement issued at the end of the 59th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Manila, the foreign ministers underscored regional commitments to cooperate on mitigating the impact of the prolonged drought in the region, which “could be intensified by climate change.”

“We committed to deepen cooperation to mitigate these risks and transboundary impacts to protect public health and minimize economic repercussions, and underscore the urgent need for early warning systems, coordinated regional preparedness, strengthened disaster risk reduction, and resilience-building measures to safeguard the well-being of ASEAN peoples and the long-term sustainability of the region’s development,” the joint statement read.

The Philippines’ weather bureau has warned of a “strong El Niño” this year that could dry up water levels in major dams, affecting agricultural, energy generation, and potable water supply in cities.

For instance, the water level at Angat Dam, the main source of drinking water in the capital region, has gone below the critical level due to a lack of rainfall despite successive typhoons.

ASEAN Foreign Ministers earlier raised concerns about the renewed tensions in the Middle East. They also called on the United States and Iran to “exercise utmost self-restraint and avoid any acts that may further aggravate the situation.” (Also read: US claims Iran “not serious” with peace talks)

In a separate ASEAN Plus Three (APT) meeting, Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun also raised concerns about food and energy security.

“The crisis before us today is no less serious. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have posed vulnerabilities that have long since been hypothetical,” Cho said.

“They have placed our food and energy security under severe strain. And yet, paradoxically, this crisis also opens a window of opportunity for ASEAN Plus Three to once again demonstrate the value of this mechanism.”

Cho also proposed to expand the scope of ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) to cover other foodstuffs.

APTERR was set up in the East Asian region due to natural disasters, as a mechanism to stockpile reserves which can be used as aid to afflicted communities.

“We should mobilize the necessary political will and engage technical experts to explore and articulate an actionable road map,” Cho said.

“On energy, our experts have already been exploring possibilities on region-wide cooperation for over a decade. Now is the time to turn the accumulated thinking into concrete action.”

China’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hua Chunying, and Japan’s Foreign Minister, Motegi Toshimitsu, also pledged their country’s willingness to cooperate in resolving challenges in food and energy security.

The joint communiqué also recalled preliminary recommendations to reinforce regional energy and food security, and agreed to ensure timely implementation of these measures.

“We recognized evolving global challenges, including the situation in the Middle East and its impacts on food systems, supply chains, and agricultural inputs, and underscored the importance of continued regional cooperation and coordination, including through the [APTERR] and the ASEAN Food Security Information System (AFSIS),” the joint statement read.

“We supported sustainable and innovative approaches, including the ASEAN One Billion Trees initiative, nature-based solutions/ecosystem-based approaches, and stronger private sector engagement, to promote climate resilience, environmental sustainability, disaster preparedness, and sustainable growth across the sectors.”

Around 20% of global energy passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which was closed after the conflict between Iran and the United States flared up anew. The blocked channel has also affected trade and agriculture.

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag during the July 22 impeachment trial. Photo by Joseph B. Vidal / Senate Social Media Unit.

Manuel Mogato | July 23, 2026

MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag has the identities of at least 20 persons who can identify the “killer” hired by the vice president to assassinate the president, his wife, and first cousin in 2024.

At the ninth day of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial, NBI Chief Melvin Matibag said the NBI has started to question the families and friends of these individuals. (Also read: NBI chief testifies threat is now an active plot)

“We have narrowed the list to fewer than 20 people, and we already have their names,” Matibag said. “In fact, we are already in contact with the families or acquaintances of some of them.”

“There are men in uniform who are in active service,” he added.

Matibag said the 20 persons of interest identified by the bureau are not the actual contracted assassin. (Also read: Prosecution to present proof that Duterte hired ‘hitman’ to kill Marcos)

He said they could lead investigators to the alleged assassin or to someone who knows the person.

File photo of US State Department spokesman Thomas Pigott at a press briefing . Official handout

Manuel Mogato | July 23, 2026

MANILA — The United States promised to provide $100 million in military aid to the Philippines for 2026 to help improve deterrence capability in the face of rising tension in the region.

Thomas Pigott, the US State Department spokesman, said the 2026 military aid was a $60 million increase over historical annual funding levels.

The Philippines will also receive a lion’s share of the $21.45 million in a separate International Military Education and Training (IMET) for ASEAN states this year.

Pigott said the US will offer military education and training programs in Brunei and will restart the same program in Cambodia.

The US military assistance package was announced as Secretary of State Marco Rubio travelled to Manila for the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting. (Also read: US claims Iran “not serious” with peace talks)

Rubio will engage with ASEAN and regional leaders to advance the United States’ vision for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, reaffirm U.S. commitment to ASEAN centrality, and strengthen the U.S.-Philippine alliance. (Also read: Rubio says China escalates action on Ayungin Shoal)

“Recognizing the strategic importance of Southeast Asia to the future of American security and prosperity, the United States is investing over $2.5 billion to strengthen security cooperation, build strategic infrastructure, advance technology-related cooperation, bolster energy security, and combat transnational crime in Southeast Asia,” the US State Department said in a statement.

Pigott said the US will also fund the $9 million project to expand a Philippine Coast Guard pier in Palawan to enhance Philippine maritime law enforcement presence and sustain operations in the South China Sea. (Also read: What’s the reason behind US expansion of military engagements in the Philippines?)

In addition, the US will provide $19 million to support investigations, prosecution, information sharing, and training and equipment for Philippine counterterrorism efforts which advances the security of the American Homeland.

About $10 million will also help improve the Philippines’ access to the Rhombus AI Concierge platform, which enables data-driven AI analytics and real-time predictive analysis to inform strategic national security decisions. An additional $3 million will help provide cyber-related training to the Philippines.

Pigott also announced plans to work with Congress to provide over $100 million in strategic assistance for infrastructure and other investments in the Philippines, focused on Subic Bay in the Luzon Economic Corridor.

“The State Department will fund upgrades including port facilities and a fuel storage terminal with 120+ million liters of capacity,” he added.

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio during the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference on Wednesday, July 22. Official handout

Manuel Mogato | July 23, 2026

MANILA — United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio wanted naval assets from Asia to help Washington secure the Strait of Hormuz to ensure freedom of navigation as well as the flow of energy resources.

But Rubio made it clear the United States has not officially asked Asian allies and partners. However, he said it is in their interests to help secure the narrow straits. (Also read: US claims Iran “not serious” with peace talks)

“I think every country in the world has an interest in protecting the right of shipping in international waters and freedom of navigation,” Rubio told journalists at the sidelines of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Manila.

“If you look at where that oil and you look at where that energy is destined, it’s not to the United States. It’s to other countries.”

Rubio said he acknowledged that some countries are constrained by their own laws to help secure the Strait of Hormuz.

“Some need an international flag; they need to do it under the mandate of an international organization,” he said. “Some need to go through the legislative process.”

Many navies from Asian states have capabilities to help the United States in ensuring the strait is open and free for international navigation. (Also read: Hegseth urges Asian allies to raise defense spending to 3.5 percent of GDP)

“Some of these countries have unique capabilities in terms of mine clearing and things of that nature,” he said, adding “it’d be great if they joined the effort, and I think some of them may eventually do so.”

“It’s in their interest to do so,” he added.

The US was also asking European allies to deploy naval assets to protect international shipping in the Persian Gulf, including vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

About 20 percent of global energy resources pass through the narrow strait. The closure of the strait has affected oil supply and prices, forcing most Asian states to seek alternative energy sources.

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Manila last Wednesday, July 22, for the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference. Official handout.

Manuel Mogato | July 23, 2026

MANILA — United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused China of “escalatory” actions after its Coast Guard personnel provoked the Philippine Navy on a contested shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

“We’ve all seen it,” Rubio said. “It’s sort of an escalatory thing that we think is very negative and benefits no one.”

Speaking to journalists at the sidelines of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Manila, Rubio also reminded China the US has a treaty arrangement with the Philippines. (Also read: US claims Iran “not serious” with peace talks)

“We intend to live up to our treaty obligations,” Rubio said.

On July 20, Chinese Coast Guard personnel approached a rusting Philippine Navy vessel in Ayungin Shoal and took photos and videos.

The Philippines responded, launching two rubber boats to drive away the Chinese Coast Guard rigid-hulled rubber boat.

The Chinese personnel attacked the Philippine Navy personnel, striking two soldiers with a wooden baton on the head.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said, in a separate interview, the Chinese actions were deliberate and were directly related to its recent claims on Batanes and AI-generated criticisms depicting Filipinos as “monkeys” being manipulated by Japan and the United States.

The ambassadors from the Philippines and China were summoned as diplomatic protests were filed after the Ayungin incident, a second violent incident after June 2024.

The Philippines and China are locked in conflicting claims on a strategic waterway where $3 trillion in trade passes annually.

Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam also have claims on the South China Sea, believed to have rich deposits of minerals and energy resources.

A US State Department spokesman, on the other hand, condemned “China’s dangerous and aggressive actions against Philippine navy personnel at Second Thomas Shoal.”

Thomas Pigott also called on China to immediately cease its destabilizing conduct.

“China’s troubling pattern of provocation against lawful Philippine maritime operations undermines regional peace and stability and directly contradicts China’s repeated commitments to resolve disputes peacefully,” Pigott said in a statement.

“We stand with our Ally, the Philippines, and commend the professionalism and restraint shown by Philippine Navy personnel in this incident.”

We reaffirm the July 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling, which found that China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea have no basis in international law. That decision is final and legally binding on both China and the Philippines,” he added.

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi meet at the sidelines of the 59th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Ministerial Meeting (AMM) on Wednesday, July 22. Photo from Secretary Lazaro’s X account.

Anna Mogato | July 22, 2026

MANILA —Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and China’s Foreign Affairs Minister Wang held a “candid discussion” over China Coast Guard’s recent activity at Ayungin Shoal and China Daily’s “offensive” AI-generated video.

Lazaro and Wang’s meeting at the sidelines of the 59th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Ministerial Meetings (AMM) on Wednesday, July 22, is the first bilateral engagement at a ministerial-level in two years.

Lazaro in a post on X (formerly Twitter), said she “reiterated our strong protest over the unacceptable actions against Filipino personnel near Ayungin Shoal, and the disturbing imagery in China Daily video.”

“At the same time, we discussed the importance of keeping communication lines open, managing tensions, and pursuing practical ways forward.”

Last week, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) filed a diplomatic protest over state media China Daily’s publication of an AI-generated video which the government said was “deeply offensive, distressing, and unacceptable.”

In a statement, the DFA said that Lazaro and Wang’s bilateral meeting was in accordance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ‘s “directive to pursue dialogue and diplomacy with China, while remaining assertive in protecting the Philippine national interest.”

Aside from political, security,maritime and law enforcement matters, both ministers discussed “regional and international developments, and mutually beneficial cooperation in trade and investment, agriculture, tourism, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges.”

A key topic discussed was the ASEAN-China Code of Conduct (COC), which the Philippines confidently maintained would be concluded by yearend.

“The two sides underscored the importance of maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region, reducing the risk of miscalculation, and sustaining dialogue on matters of mutual concern,” the statement read.

The DFA in its statement also added that Lazaro reiterated the Philippines’ adherence to the One China Policy, which the country has followed since the 1975 Joint Communiqué between both countries.

US State Secretary Marco Rubio during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Post-Ministerial Conference with the US. Official handout.

Anna Mogato | July 22, 2026

MANILA — The US has shifted the blame on Iran for the continued conflict in the Middle East despite both parties supposedly having reached an agreement in June.

US State Secretary Marco Rubio on Wednesday said that Iran “have not kept the commitments” and were not serious about the peace talks.

“If they’re serious, we’re serious. If they’re not, then we will do what’s necessary to protect our interests and also the interests of our allies,” Rubio said.

“At its core, it’s very simple : Iran demands a right which they do not have under any existing legal mechanism.”

Rubio is currently in Manila for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Post-Ministerial Conference (PMC).

Earlier, the ASEAN Foreign Ministers released a joint statement airing their concern on the continued Middle East crisis, which affects not just trade, energy and food security, but also the ASEAN nationals who reside in the region.

The statement also emphasized the need for freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has since closed again.

“I don’t need to talk, teach about the importance of freedom of navigation and international waterways in this region,” Rubio said.

“And, we create a precedent in the Middle East, where a nation state can decide that they are going to control an international waterway, charge tolls because you don’t pay them, and blow up ships. We have created a very dangerous precedent, which will repeat itself in other parts of the world, including in this region.”

Rubio added that the US remains open and willing to engage in constructive negotiation as long as commitments are kept, but otherwise there will be consequences.

“If these consequences did not exist, then today, we would be living in a world where a significant percentage of the energy supply of this region and 20 percent of the energy supply of the world is being held hostage by a nation-state,” Rubio said.

“By a rogue regime who intends to appropriate that right and control it for itself a right [that] they do not have under any definition of international laws.”

Rubio also reiterated during the PMC their commitments in the ASEAN region. Earlier, the US announced $2.5 billion in strategic investments (Also read: US, Indonesia sign defense agreement)

“We’re investing because development and prosperity is also in the interest of the United States. This is not charity. It’s not something we’re doing because we’re nice people, although I believe we are nice people, but it’s in our national interest,” Rubio said. (Also read: Hegseth urges Asian allies to raise defense spending to 3.5 percent of GDP)

“Our partnership with each of your countries and the region at large is in the national interest of the United States, and we will never abandon it. No matter what else is going on in the world, no matter what our bilateral relations may be with other countries.”

China’s Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan, summoned by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to discuss the recent incident in Ayungin Shoal. Photo from PCO.

Manuel Mogato, Anna Mogato | July 21, 2026

MANILA – Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday summoned China’s ambassador, Jing Quan, to discuss the recent violent incident on Ayungin Shoal in the contested West Philippine Sea and how to avoid future similar incidents.

A presidential spokesperson, lawyer Claire Castro, confirmed to journalists the meeting had taken place late in the afternoon but withheld further information.

However, China’s ambassador told journalists the meeting with the Philippine president was a “private discussion”.

He said the meeting “is very constructive.”

“This is not a diplomatic protest, demarche, pointing fingers at each other, exchange of strong words against each other,” he explained.

“I think it’s a very useful, constructive, and in-depth exchange of views, especially not on the incident, but kind of a whole range of issues that recently happened which create difficulty in bilateral relations.”

On Monday, two Philippine Navy servicemen were injured after attempting to drive away a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) rubber boat that approached BRP Sierra Madre.

The CCG personnel had taken photos and videos of the grounded ship.

Jing defended the Chinese Coast Guard actions, saying that the CCG had sent two boats to check on BRP Sierra Madre after they noticed “some kind of construction work in the ship.”

The Philippines and China signed a provisional agreement in July 2024 to de-escalate tensions in Ayungin Shoal after a Philippine sailor lost a finger during another violent incident near Ayungin Shoal.

The agreement stipulated that the Philippines does not have to request permission to conduct rotation and resupply missions, and Chinese personnel are not allowed to board Philippine vessels.

“That’s the spirit of our provisional agreement, that is no new construction, keep the status quo; we agree to the resupply agreement,” Jing said.

“But we found they are doing something new. They sent boats and people, challenged us, to provoke or something. Then something happened. That’s the whole story.”

“I think the last 2 years we implemented the agreement very well, but I hope that both sides could abide by the agreement, especially the spirit of the agreement, no new construction, no change of the status quo.”

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro told reporters on the sidelines of the 59th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers Meeting that she has also raised the issue during their plenary session.

“Well, I was the one who presented it as part of the discussion. Everybody has read it; it’s all in the newspapers,” Lazaro said.

“But here, the foreign ministers did not respond to that position that I made because I think everything is still being discussed between the two parties.”

However, the Code of Conduct (COC) on the South China Sea had been discussed during the ministers’ retreat. The Philippines has been pushing for the COC to be signed within the year, while the country still has the chairmanship of ASEAN.

“There was a statement, of course, made at the South China Sea by the other various ministers and me, but I think what was really very emphatic about it is the Code of Conduct,” Lazaro said.

“I think all the foreign ministers, almost all, have really focused themselves on the development that is happening with the Code of Conduct between ASEAN and China on the South China.”

Lazaro is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi tomorrow.

Jing said that the bilateral relations between the Philippines and China are at a critical moment, but remained confident that the foreign ministers can set up a roadmap by the end of the year.

“[S]ometimes we debate, we don’t agree with each other but at least we should talk to each other. We should find a way to manage those difficult issues, and prevent those issues from becoming something explosive to our relations,” Jing said.

“And to keep the relations stable best serves the fundamental interest of our two countries. We are neighbors. And serve the best interests of our [people].”

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Melvin Matibag testifying during the impeachment hearing on Tuesday, July 21. Photo by Wendell Alinea/Senate Social Media Unit

Manuel Mogato | July 21, 2026

MANILA — The head of the country’s premier investigation agency told the Senate impeachment court that they have started looking into an “active, serious, and continuing” plot to kill the president.

Lawyer Melvin Matibag, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director, told the 21 senator-judges sitting in an impeachment court that he opened a new investigation this year to identify and locate an assassin contracted by Vice President Sara Duterte.

“This is a continuing investigation, and we cannot divulge any details,” he told the impeachment court when cross-examined by the Vice President’s lawyer, Mark Vinluan.

“I cannot disclose the identity of our persons of interest because[…] this is a continuing and open investigation.”

“Our investigation will be compromised, and it will endanger our informants on the ground who can provide human intel,” he added. (Also read: Vice President’s threats were “serious” — witness)

Matibag said the NBI considered any threats to the life of President Ferdinand Marcos as a national security threat because they believed the vice president’s threats, made in 2024, were serious, active and continuing.

“The threats have crossed into a kill-plot,” he added. (Also read: Prosecution to present proof that Duterte hired ‘hitman’ to kill Marcos)

Matibag took over as NBI chief only in February and immediately started reviewing the grave threats and inciting to sedition case filed by the NBI before the justice department.

The Justice Department is still conducting a preliminary investigation more than a year after the NBI complaint was filed.

In April, Matibag said he created a task force to open a fresh investigation to identify an assassin hired by Duterte, patterned after the five-step methodology of the US Secret Service.

Matibag also told the court the vice president has a history of violence, citing two incidents when she was mayor - one was when she threw punches at a court sheriff for leading a demolition operation and when he claimed the vice president was involved in extrajudicial killings in the city as a mayor.

But so far, the NBI has yet to identify a specific assassin hired by the vice president.

During cross-examination, the defense lawyer tried hard to discredit Matibag’s testimony, insinuating he was a biased witness by pointing out he was married to a Laguna congresswoman who was among 257 members of the House of Representatives who endorsed the impeachment complaint to the Senate.

The defense lawyer also insinuated that Matibag was appointed to his position by the president.

The defense lawyer also focused on technicalities to destroy Matibag’s testimony by presenting an unsigned and unsubscribed affidavit from a former police officer in Davao City who linked Duterte to extrajudicial killings when she was mayor from 2010 to 2013.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro during the brief press huddle on July 21. Photo by Anna Mogato.

Anna Mogato | July 21, 2026

MANILA – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is dead set on resolving the political crisis in Myanmar, setting a November deadline to resolve the question when Manila hosts an end-of-the-year ASEAN leaders summit.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro briefed the Southeast Asian ministers on Tuesday on the outcomes of last week’s informal meeting with Myanmar’s representatives and stakeholders in Thailand.

She is also this year’s ASEAN chair and special envoy to Myanmar.

“The foreign ministers agree that for these proposals to come to fruition, we should require the continuous deliberation of our senior officials as to how this may be interpreted in the outcome documents,” Lazaro told reporters at the sidelines of the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting.

Myanmar plunged into a deep political crisis after the generals seized state control and threw the civilian leaders, led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, in jail and attacked various ethnic rebel forces. (Also read: Philippines calls on Myanmar to free political prisoners)

ASEAN proposed a five-point consensus mechanism to normalize the situation, hold elections, free political prisoners, and allow humanitarian assistance to displaced people. The generals have yet to comply with all the mechanisms.

Early this month, Thailand hosted an unprecedented meeting between ASEAN foreign ministers and their Myanmar counterparts, and later Lazaro met with representatives of ethnic armed organizations from Myanmar in an effort to resolve the crisis.

Lazaro said through her meetings with her counterparts, she is also optimistic about ASEAN’s commitment to assist Myanmar in achieving a lasting solution.

A non-paper document, or unsigned diplomatic document, was presented during the extended informal discussion on Myanmar earlier that day.

It will also be given to senior officials to clarify some points in assessing “demonstrable developments” happening in Myanmar, she told journalists.

“There were two documents that the foreign ministers have tasked the senior officials with. One is some kind of a benchmark — How do you assess the development [in Myanmar]? And therefore, that’s one. And second is the long-term permanent possibility of a special envoy,” Lazaro said.

“It has been agreed upon that having an annual special envoy, like in my case, is something that is not really that effective because, you know, you have to have the whole picture and it should be, it cannot be on an annual basis.”

Instead, Lazaro said ASEAN is also considering other proposals, such as Brunei’s suggestion to appoint a special envoy assisted by the ASEAN Secretariat.

Unlike the ASEAN Chairmanship, which changes hands every year, the Secretary-General who heads the Secretariat holds the position for five years.

“There’s also the issue of funding — who’s going to fund the travels of the special envoy. But again, we have tasked the senior officials to really give meat and discuss this carefully because this is an input to the leader’s meeting in November,” Lazaro added.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro speaking to reporters at the sidelines of the 59th ASEAN Foreign Minister’s Meeting. Photo by Anna Mogato.

Anna Mogato | July 21, 2026

MANILA – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) renewed calls on the United States and Iran to “exercise utmost self-restraint and avoid any acts that may further aggravate the situation” in the Middle East.

Philippine Foreign Affairs secretary and ASEAN Chair, Ma. Theresa Lazaro, said that the statement was proposed by the Philippines during the plenary discussion of the 59th ASEAN Foreign Minister’s Meeting (AMM).

“There is, of course, serious concern on the developments of the Middle East. In fact, if you notice, this is just one, this is the only document that involves geopolitics in our discussions,” Lazaro said. (Also read: ASEAN calls for cessation of hostilities in the Middle East)

“But this is of such urgency that we have to release the document as soon as possible.”

In a statement released on Tuesday, July 21, ASEAN ministers expressed concern that the resumed conflict in the Middle East “severely undermine the ongoing efforts of key mediators and diminish the prospects for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.” (Also read: ASEAN: Finding relevance in a burning world)

ASEAN foreign ministers issued a statement as they gathered in Manila this week for annual ministerial meetings. The 10 Southeast Asian foreign ministers will also have an opportunity to discuss mutual bilateral issues, including security and economic matters with top envoys from Australia, China, Japan, Russia, CT South Korea, and the United States

In June, both parties were supposedly close to an agreement following talks in Switzerland, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar.

However, tensions resumed later that month after Iran launched a drone attack on a commercial cargo ship passing by the Strait of Hormuz.

The regional bloc in the statement also “called for the restoration of the safe, unimpeded, and continuous transit passage of vessels and aircraft in the Strait of Hormuz.”

About a fifth of global oil and natural gas shipments, or roughly 20 million barrels, pass through the Strait of Hormuz. (Also read: How long will Iran hold the world hostage in the Strait of Hormuz?)

The ministers expressed deep concern over the impact the conflict has on Southeast Asian nationals who live and work in the region. In the same document, the member states reaffirmed their shared commitment to aid ASEAN nationals.

Thailand Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow met with Myanmar’s Union Minister of Foreign Affairs U Tin Maung Swe last July 14 during Tin Maung Swe’s visit to Thailand last week. Official handout

Prapapoom Eiamsom | July 21, 2026

BANGKOK — The ongoing crisis in Myanmar has become the defining test of ASEAN’s credibility as a regional organization.

As conflict intensifies, Thailand—sharing a long, porous border with Myanmar —has adopted a proactive, controversial policy of “calibrated re-engagement” to pull its neighbor back into the ASEAN fold.

However, critics argue this pragmatic pursuit of stability risks legitimizing a military regime while undermining the very principles that ASEAN is sworn to uphold.

Thailand’s urgency is not born of mere diplomatic ambition; it is born of necessity. The instability across the border has translated into tangible domestic crises for Thailand. (Also read: India’s Highway to Thailand Hinges on a Peaceful Myanmar)

For instance, thousands of displaced persons in Myanmar have sought refuge on Thai soil as the lawless border regions have become epicentres for transnational crime, including human trafficking, drug production, and industrial-scale scam centres.

The issues are not merely localized; they have evolved into international burdens that frequently dominate the agenda in meetings between Thai officials and their global counterparts. (Also read: Securing China’s ‘front door’: Peacemaking mission in mainland Southeast Asia)

Consequently, the Thai government views the re-integration of Myanmar into ASEAN as the viable pathway to stabilize the border and mitigate these persistent threats.

The Thai Foreign Ministry has coined the term “calibrated re-engagement” to describe its approach. It is framed as a pragmatic evolution of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus—a peace framework that the Myanmar military junta has largely ignored.

While international stakeholders generally do not dispute the necessity of Thailand maintaining direct communication channels with its neighbor, the execution of this strategy has become a point of intense contention.

The Myanmar military’s formal rejection of the ASEAN peace framework, coupled with attacks on ethnic groups near the Thai border just days before hosting regional representatives, was viewed by many as a clear “slap in the face.”

Instead of addressing this provocation, the Thai Foreign Ministry has rebranded its role from “mediator” to mere “coordinator.”

By intentionally lowering expectations and distancing itself from the role of a peace broker, critics argue this creates a dangerous illusion of progress.

This strategy has drawn sharp criticism from human rights activists, international relations scholars, and opposition political factions within Thailand.

The central fear is that in its hurry to secure a “quick win,” by providing a platform in Bangkok for the regime to reject the ASEAN consensus, facilitating its participation in summits, and hosting its leaders in August, critics argue that Thailand grants Min Aung Hlaing’s administration an unearned veneer of international respectability, the Thai administration is unwittingly serving as a bridge for the military regime to rehabilitate its image.

It is critical to note that this military-led government is not internationally recognized as a legitimate authority; its power stems from a coup followed by elections that were widely dismissed by the global community as neither free nor fair.

By engaging with them as if they represent a legitimate “transition phase,” the Thai government risks mischaracterising the nature of the regime.

There has been no tangible evidence of political will from this military leadership to engage in a genuine peace process or address the human rights abuses that triggered the crisis in the first place.

By granting this veneer of legitimacy without demanding corresponding concessions, Thailand may inadvertently be eroding the very leverage ASEAN possesses to pressure the junta toward real, meaningful reform.

For ASEAN, the stakes are existential. If Myanmar is welcomed back into the fold without fulfilling its obligations, it will signal to the international community that ASEAN lacks the teeth to enforce its own policies.

If the “calibrated re-engagement” strategy results in a facade of progress while violence continues unabated, the long-term impact on the border may be the opposite of what the Thai government intends. Without a genuine commitment to peace from the junta, regional stability remains a pipe dream.

The Thai government appears to have already chosen its path, opting for a high-stakes “calibrated re-engagement” strategy that leaves the nation walking a dangerous tightrope.

All eyes are now on Bangkok to see if this diplomatic gamble will yield the stability the government desperately seeks, or if it will merely deepen the regional crisis by granting unearned legitimacy to a regime that has yet to demonstrate any genuine commitment to peace.

Manuel Mogato | July 21, 2026

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr appointed an Army general who has extensive combat experience in Mindanao to be the next commander of the 150,000- member Armed Forces.

Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete will assume the position of General Romeo Brawner Jr. who served as chief of staff for three years under a law. Nafarrete is the commanding general of the Philippine Army.

Nafarrete’s appointment was announced by defense department’s spokesman, Arsenio Andolong, on the same day Brawner will retire after 41 years of active military service.

Andolong also announced Lieutenant General Donald Gumiran, the Western Mindanao Command chief, will replace Nafarrete.

A member of the Philippine Military Academy class of 1990, the 57 year-old Nafarrete trained as a member of the elite Scout Ranger unit and rose to command the 6th Infantry Division and the Western Mindanao Command before he was designated as Army commander last year.

Nafarrete is supposed to retire in July 2027 but his appointment as chief of staff extends his active duty status until July 2029.

Nafarrete’s appointment is critical to security operations in the Muslim Mindanao region where a regional parliamentary elections will be held on September 14.

The Army, under Nafarrete, has been transforming into coastal defense force focusing on external defense role.