Marcos to Finalize Three Agreements During Cambodia Journey
President Marcos' State Visit to Cambodia: Strengthening Ties and Pursuing Regional Cooperation
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to embark on a three-day state visit to Cambodia from September 7 to 9, marking the government's first state visit to the country in almost nine years. This visit, which was extended by King Norodom Sihamoni, aims to diversify trade and economic relations, strengthen cooperation in addressing transnational crimes, and seek support for the Philippines' chairmanship of ASEAN in 2026.
During his visit, President Marcos will hold a roundtable meeting with Filipino and Cambodian business leaders to strengthen investment relations. The Philippines aims to discuss boosting exports, including food, beverage, and pharmaceutical products, as well as expanding Filipino franchises in Cambodia.
In the realm of education, President Marcos mentions Philippine scholarships for Cambodian students in science and technology as a reflection of shared progress. This initiative underscores the commitment to fostering intellectual exchange and mutual growth between the two nations.
The visit will also provide an opportunity for President Marcos to meet members of the Filipino community in Cambodia, comprising approximately 7,500 overseas Filipino workers. He notes the presence of these Filipinos who contribute significantly to the growth and development of Cambodian society.
A key focus of the visit will be on addressing issues such as human trafficking, which has seen an increase in mainland Southeast Asia. This is one of the issues lined up for discussion in the bilateral meeting.
Looking ahead to 2026, when the Philippines chairs ASEAN, President Marcos reaffirms his commitment to "reinforce the importance of ASEAN Centrality" and to build a progressive and inclusive region.
The Minister for Foreign Trade traveling with President Marcos is Alfredo E. Pascual, who serves as the Secretary of Trade and Industry of the Philippines. He is responsible for the ministry overseeing foreign trade and economic affairs.
Accompanying President Marcos on the visit are Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Laurel Jr., Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Christina Roque, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac, and Commission on Higher Education chief Shirley Agrupis.
President Marcos also plans to pursue intensified defense and security cooperation with Cambodia to ensure regional peace and stability. The visit will focus on commerce, law enforcement, and diplomatic support.
Notably, ties between the Philippines and Cambodia were formalized in 1957. This state visit serves as a testament to the enduring relationship between the two nations and a stepping stone towards a more prosperous and secure future for both.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet visited the Philippines for a state visit in February 2025, setting the stage for this reciprocal visit by President Marcos. As the two leaders come together, they reaffirm their commitment to deepening intra-ASEAN ties and "further diversify our cooperation."
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