Philippines expresses concern over Myanmar airstrike deaths and injuries

ASEAN: ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization of Southeast Asian nations that operates on a consensus-based approach to address shared challenges. As the 2026 chair, the Philippines is guiding the bloc's response to the Myanmar situation while remaining mindful of all member views. The organization continues to prioritize dialogue and support for Myanmar-owned solutions. Myanmar: Myanmar is a Southeast Asian country facing ongoing internal armed conflict between the military and various ethnic armed groups. Recent airstrikes in Rakhine state have heightened regional concerns and prompted ASEAN member states to consider ways to provide assistance. The situation underscores the bloc's focus on regionally led responses to the crisis. Philippines: The Philippines is a Southeast Asian nation currently holding the 2026 chairmanship of ASEAN. It is closely monitoring the situation in Myanmar and has voiced concern over recent airstrikes causing deaths and injuries. As chair, Manila stands ready to facilitate bloc discussions aimed at a Myanmar-owned solution while adhering to consensus principles. Ana Marie Hernando: Ana Marie Hernando is the Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for ASEAN Affairs at the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs. She issued the official statement expressing the Philippines' concern over the Myanmar airstrikes and its readiness to support ASEAN facilitation efforts. Her role involves advancing Philippine priorities during the country's ASEAN chairmanship. ASEAN Chairmanship: The Philippines holds the ASEAN chairmanship in 2026, enabling it to coordinate regional discussions on crises including the conflict in Myanmar. Consensus Approach: ASEAN maintains its consensus-based decision-making process when addressing developments in member states such as Myanmar. Regional Engagement: ASEAN foreign ministers have recently renewed calls for concrete steps to reduce violence in Myanmar through inclusive dialogue and humanitarian support.