The Manila Times
THE Philippines will continue its engagements with Myanmar following the election of military leader Min Aung Hlaing as president, Malacañang said. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government has taken note of the recent political developments in Myanmar, particularly the election of Min Aung. “The Philippines will continue to engage relevant authorities and stakeholders in Myanmar through Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, in her capacity as special envoy of the Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) chair to Myanmar, as well as through our respective embassies,” Castro said in a statement. In November 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Lazaro as the Philippines’ special envoy of the Asean chair to Myanmar, as part of the country’s role in supporting regional efforts to address the crisis in Myanmar. The Palace official reiterated the country’s commitment to Asean-led efforts to address the situation in Myanmar. Castro also called for “renewed momentum” in achieving the cessation of violence in Myanmar. “The Philippines remains committed to support Asean’s collective efforts and encourages renewed momentum toward the full and effective implementation of the Five-Point Consensus, particularly in achieving the cessation of violence and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Myanmar,” she said. Min Aung, who has led Myanmar’s military government since the February 2021 coup, was elected president by a military-dominated parliament, consolidating his hold on power amid ongoing political turmoil. Min Aung had landed the position through a huge margin of 429 votes against retired Gen. Nyo Saw’s 126. The 2021 coup ousted the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi and triggered widespread protests, armed resistance and international condemnation, plunging the country into prolonged instability.
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