Philippines Plans Talks with Myanmar Rebel Groups

Philippines’ Foreign Minister to Engage Myanmar’s Ethnic Armed Groups

The Philippines' foreign minister, Ma. Theresa Lazaro, announced that she will soon meet with various ethnic armed groups from Myanmar to discuss their situation and explore ways the country can help. She made the statement at a Nikkei‑hosted forum in Tokyo, saying she wants to “find out the situation and how we can really try to help.”

Lazaro’s role as a special envoy comes as the Philippines holds this year’s chair of ASEAN. The regional body has been trying to re‑engage with Myanmar after the military coup in 2021 triggered widespread protests and a civil war involving many rebel factions. The new, mostly civilian government that took over in April says it aims to restore ties with ASEAN partners.

Details about which groups Lazaro will meet or where the meetings will take place remain unclear. She noted that arrangements are still being worked out, adding “We’ll see how it works.”

Earlier this year, Manila hosted a stakeholders’ meeting that brought together several ethnic rebel groups in an effort to find solutions to the ongoing crisis. The Philippine government hopes these talks will pave the way for a more stable situation in Myanmar and strengthen regional cooperation.

The meetings reflect ASEAN’s broader strategy to encourage dialogue, reduce conflict, and support the peace process in Myanmar. By engaging directly with local groups, the Philippines signals its commitment to regional security and humanitarian concerns.