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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos, Lao PM discuss crime fight, trade ties

Marcos, Lao PM discuss crime fight, trade ties

Published May 9, 2026 06:36 am
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (PCO)
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (PCO)

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — President Marcos and Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone discussed strengthening cooperation on transnational crime, trade, and regional concerns during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings here. 

In a Facebook post, President Marcos said it was a “pleasure” to meet Siphandone. The two leaders met at the Business Center of Shangri-La Mactan in Lapu-Lapu City on Friday, May 8.

“As our countries mark more than seven decades of diplomatic relations, we discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in trade, energy security, digital transformation, combating transnational crime, and development initiatives that will create more opportunities for both our peoples,” he said.

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Marcos and Siphandone also exchanged views on regional developments, particularly the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The Middle East crisis has become a major concern among ASEAN member-states due to its effects on fuel prices, trade routes, and the welfare of millions of Southeast Asians working in the region.

Earlier during the Summit, ASEAN leaders reiterated calls for peace and de-escalation in the Middle East conflict.

Siphandones is the second ASEAN leader to hold a bilateral meeting with Marcos on the sidelines of the Summit. The President held a bilateral meeting with the new Vietnamese Prime Minister, Lê Minh Hưng, on May 7.

The PCO said the meetings reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation and pursue shared growth within ASEAN.

The Philippines is hosting the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings in Cebu under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.”

Related Tags

President Marcos Bongbong Marcos PCO ASEAN PH-Laos Sonexay Siphandone
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