**CEBU, PHILIPPINES:** While diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China are rapidly intensifying surrounding the South China Sea dispute, a noticeable silence occurred regarding the sensitive border issue between Cambodia and Thailand during the regional press conference. Mr. **Puy Kea**, President of the Club of Cambodian Journalists (CJC), raised an incisive question, challenging the role and obligation of regional and international journalists who disregarded this critical national issue during the recent ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM Retreat).
The ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM Retreat) held on Cebu Island, the Philippines, on January 29, 2026, became a major global focal point. Although the meeting atmosphere was heavily charged with discussions on Myanmar and the South China Sea conflict—even reaching the point of threats to expel diplomats between the Philippines and China—the issue of the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute appeared to be entirely overlooked.
Madam **Theresa Lazaro**, the Philippine Foreign Minister and Rotating ASEAN Chair, conducted a press conference lasting nearly half an hour. However, at the conclusion of the conference, she subtly noted that no journalist had asked her about the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict. This observation not only demonstrated her preparedness to answer broad questions but also reflected a significant lapse within the regional media sector.
Mr. Puy Kea, President of the Club of Cambodian Journalists, expressed deep concern that issues related to Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity were not raised by journalists at this international forum.
As the Fourth Estate of the nation, journalists bear an undeniable obligation to seek out and disseminate information that serves the national and public interest. Although **Article 41 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia** guarantees freedom of the press, this right also requires accountability and strict adherence to national security and public interest.
Mr. Puy Kea emphasized: “The failure to raise questions regarding the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict before the ASEAN Chair is a dangerous signal, indicating that our sovereignty challenges risk losing momentum and attention from the region and the world if our own journalists do not pay due attention.”
Nevertheless, there was a follow-up inquiry from journalists after the conference concluded. When pressed regarding the outcome of discussions surrounding the Cambodia-Thailand border issue, Madam Lazaro responded briefly and clearly in English: **“There was no breakthrough regarding the Thailand-Cambodia border dispute issue.”** (There was no resolution concerning the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute issue.)
This clarification demonstrates that although the matter was indeed discussed among the Ministers, it has not yet reached any tangible decision or resolution. This lack of a new breakthrough serves as a warning sign for the Royal Government and the people of Cambodia to continue monitoring and promoting this issue to remain a key regional agenda item.
This incident provides a vital lesson for all Cambodian national news agencies. When major topics like the South China Sea issue or the Myanmar crisis dominate regional media, Cambodian journalists must assert their presence and demonstrate the courage to raise questions pertinent to the nation’s sovereign interests.
Silence is not an option for professional journalists. KPDNEWS calls for the strengthening of professionalism and a profound understanding of national consciousness, in accordance with the Code of Journalistic Ethics and the **Law on the Press Regime**, to ensure that all crucial national issues are disseminated and brought to bear pressure at both national and international levels.
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**Published by: KPDNEWS News Agency**
**Date: 30 January 2026**
