Key facts
- An airstrike in Myanmar's Rakhine state killed 50 people and wounded dozens more.
- The Philippines, as ASEAN chair, expressed concern over the attack.
- Manila is ready to facilitate discussions within ASEAN on assisting Myanmar.
The Philippines, as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), has voiced concern over an airstrike in Myanmar's Rakhine state that resulted in deaths, injuries, and destruction. Manila is prepared to facilitate discussions among ASEAN member states to find a Myanmar-led solution to the ongoing conflict.
The Philippines' statement highlights ASEAN's ongoing efforts to address the crisis in Myanmar, underscoring the regional bloc's commitment to finding a diplomatic solution amidst escalating violence and humanitarian concerns.
The Philippines, in its capacity as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), has expressed deep concern over an airstrike in Myanmar's Rakhine state that resulted in significant casualties and destruction. Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for ASEAN Affairs Ana Marie Hernando stated that the Philippines is closely monitoring the situation and is ready to facilitate discussions among ASEAN member states on how best to assist Myanmar.
Manila emphasized that it remains mindful of the views of all member states and will continue to adhere to ASEAN's consensus-based approach, aiming for a solution that is "Myanmar-owned and led." The airstrike, which occurred in Kyauktaw on Monday, is reported to be the deadliest in Rakhine state since a December hospital bombing, claiming the lives of 50 people and injuring dozens more.
Myanmar has been embroiled in a nationwide civil war since the military coup in 2021. An alliance of armed groups, including the Arakan Army, is engaged in conflict with the military. This protracted war has led to approximately 100,000 deaths and displaced over 3.5 million people in the country.
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