Philippine Secretary of National Defence, Gilbert Teodoro Jr., leveraged the 23rd IISS Shangri-La Dialogue to firmly position Manila to guard the “autonomy of ASEAN member states”. The Philippine delegation emphasised its role to protect rules-based order and solidify international alliances.
Author: Jonathan Kay
Defence and Politics Correspondent
Singapore’s Shangri‑La Dialogue spotlights maritime security amid rule-based order crisis
Singapore is hosting the 2026 Shangri‑La Dialogue 2026 from May 29 to 31, convening high-level representatives from 44 nations around the world to discuss key security issues. Several major themes covered in the dialogue include the international rule-based order, fracturing alliances and contested maritime domains.
Marcos, Takaichi elevate Japan–Philippines ties to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae formally elevated their countries’ bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) during a state visit on May 28, marking a step forward in bilateral ties amid geopolitical and economic challenges.
Dutch frigate docks in Manila amid South China Sea tensions
The Royal Netherlands Navy’s command frigate HNLMS De Ruyter (F804), docked in Manila port for three days from May 22 until 24, participating in a joint drill as part of their “Pacific Archer” mission—a five-month deployment mission within the Indo-Pacific region. The frigate’s arrival in Manila coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the Philippines and the Netherlands.
Cambodia grants royal pardon to former opposition leader
King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia granted a royal pardon to former opposition leader Kem Sokha on May 25, ending his eight years of arbitrary detention and lifting the treason charge immediately.
Brussels urges Jakarta to end impunity and protect civic space
The European Parliament adopted a Joint Motion for a Resolution (RC-B10-0248/2026) on May 21, calling on the Indonesian government to end impunity and protect civil liberties following the acid attacks against human rights activist Andrie Yunus and environmental activist Muhammad Rosidi.
Lao Foreign Minister’s Tokyo visit highlights bilateral development
Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane conducted an official visit to Japan on May 21, meeting Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara and Crown Prince Akishino.
Australia’s ministerial visit highlights enduring Australia–Timor-Leste partnership
Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, paid an official visit to Timor-Leste on May 20 to attend the commemoration of Dili’s 24th anniversary of the Restoration of Independence.
Thailand conducts military drills along naval border with Cambodia
Admiral Pairoj Fuengchan, the current Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), revealed that naval troops have been mobilised to Trat province as a direct response to the movement of Cambodian troops near the maritime border on May 22.
Cambodian Senate approves new conscription law
The Cambodian Senate unanimously passed a new conscription law on May 20, requiring male citizens aged 18-25 to serve two consecutive years in the military. The legislation was approved during the 5th session of the 5th legislature.