Marcos, Trump urge calm as Thai-Cambodian battle worsens

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed deep concern over the intensifying conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, urging both Southeast Asian neighbors to resolve their differences through peaceful and lawful means, consistent with ASEAN principles and international law.

In a statement issued late Saturday, Marcos underscored the Philippines’ commitment to regional stability and its willingness to assist in de-escalating tensions.

“The Philippines views with concern the ongoing conflict between our two fellow ASEAN Member States and urges them to resolve the dispute in accordance with international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes,” Marcos said.

“The Philippines stands ready to assist in any way to restore peace,” he added.

The border conflict, which erupted Thursday over a long-standing territorial dispute, has now entered its fourth day.

Artillery clashes continued on Sunday near two contested ancient temples along the northern Cambodia–northeast Thailand frontier.

The fighting has claimed at least 34 lives — both civilian and military — and displaced over 200,000 people on both sides of the border.

Despite international efforts to intervene, including a late-night call from US President Donald Trump, hostilities continued.

Trump said on his Truth Social platform that both Thai and Cambodian leaders agreed to “quickly work out” a ceasefire and suggested future trade deals would follow once peace is restored.

“When all is done, and peace is at hand, I look forward to concluding our Trading Agreements with both!” Trump wrote.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has since agreed to an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire,” instructing Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn to coordinate talks with Thai officials and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai likewise said his country was open to ceasefire discussions “as soon as possible.”