Bilateral meeting: MOFA UM met with ASEAN Chair’s Special Envoy

Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chair to Myanmar Ms. Maria Theresa Parreno Lazaro, made a working visit to Myanmar from January 5 to 7, 2026.

During the visit, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Shwe met with the Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chair to Myanmar and her delegation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nay Pyi Taw on January 6, 2026. During the meeting, the Union Minister expressed welcome and support for the Philippines' role as the ASEAN Chair for 2026.

He discussed the Myanmar Government's efforts for domestic peace and stability, the successful completion of Phase (1) of the Multi-Party Democracy General Election in Myanmar, and the ongoing preparations to successfully continue with Phases (2) and (3) of the election.

He also talked about Myanmar's cooperation with neighboring countries, regional countries, and the international community in combating cross-border crimes and online scams, the status of repatriating foreigners, including Filipino nationals, involved in online scams to their respective countries, and matters regarding enhancing bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Furthermore, the Union Minister stated that during the 70 years of diplomatic relations between Myanmar and the Philippines, good relations have been established, and mutual support and assistance have been extended during natural disasters.

He expressed gratitude for the Philippines' dispatch of an emergency rescue team and provision of assistance regarding the Mandalay earthquake. He also thanked for the dispatch of representatives from the Philippine Embassy in Yangon during Phase (1) of the election and for recognizing that the election was being held systematically and successfully.

The Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs stated that she noted the Union Minister's explanations, including regarding Myanmar's cooperation with the ASEAN Chair in implementing the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus.

She expressed gratitude for Myanmar's positive cooperation as a member country of ASEAN in the efforts and leadership of the ASEAN Chair. She mentioned that her visit is the introductory trip after the Philippines assumed the role of ASEAN Chair and that the Philippines will continue to engage and cooperate with Myanmar. She also expressed gratitude to the Myanmar Government for rescuing and repatriating Filipino nationals who were trafficked through online scams and discussed sectors where bilateral cooperation could be further enhanced.

It is learned that the Union Minister hosted a lunch in honor of the Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs and her delegation at the Park Royal Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw.