By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday congratulated Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and expressed optimism over stronger Philippines–Thailand cooperation, particularly in key sectors such as energy.
Marcos spoke with Anutin in a phone call to convey his congratulations on the Thai leader’s recent reelection as prime minister.
In a Facebook post, Marcos said Anutin’s reelection reflects the trust of the Thai people in his leadership and vision.
“I am delighted to speak with PM Anutin today to personally convey my congratulations on his appointment as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand,” he said.
Marcos expressed his readiness to work closely with the Royal Thai Government to expand practical cooperation in priority areas.
“I look forward to working closely with the Royal Thai Government to expand practical cooperation across priority areas including energy and food security, combating transnational crimes in the ASEAN region,” he said.
Marcos, as this year’s ASEAN chairperson, reaffirmed his commitment to ensure that the regional bloc remains “a force for peace, growth and opportunity for our peoples.”
Anutin was elected by the parliament to serve as prime minister in September 2025, following the constitutional court’s dismissal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra for an ethical breach.
He was reelected by the House of Representatives on March 19, 2026, after his conservative Bhumjaithai Party emerged as the largest faction in the February general elections. (PNA)
