ASEAN Chair Philippines Faces Thorny Task: Thailand-Cambodia Dispute

The Philippines will confront a major diplomatic test when it chairs ASEAN in 2026: how to handle the tense border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. Experts warn the regional bloc's ability to resolve conflicts is limited. Long-standing historical issues between the two Southeast Asian nations are expected to cause repeated tensions this year. This continues despite two recent attempts to establish peace. Last October, a deal was brokered by then-U.S. President Donald Trump in Malaysia. The neighbors also held talks on December 29. As ASEAN chair, Manila must decide how actively to intervene. Analysts suggest that if ASEAN does not act decisively, powerful outside nations like the U.S. or China may increase their influence in the region.