President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has departed for Cambodia on Sunday to strengthen the Philippines’ ties with the country, and the ASEAN community as a whole.

“During my visit, I will discuss ways to further diversify our cooperation and strengthen our intra-ASEAN relationships and exchanges by capitalizing on our complementary strengths in the face of global economic headwinds,” President Marcos said at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

“As the Philippines prepares to take the helm of ASEAN in 2026, my visit will reinforce the importance of ASEAN centrality and our commitment to build a progressive and inclusive region,” he added.

His three-day state visit comes at the invitation of King Sihamoni and follows Prime Minister Hun Manet’s visit to Manila in February this year.

Marcos is to meet with Senate President Hun Sen and the Prime Minister during his visit.

He will also be taking part in a roundtable discussion with leading Filipino and Cambodian executives to pursue trade and investment opportunities, particularly in food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals, as well as the expansion of Filipino franchise businesses.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday, several agreements will also be signed, concerning higher education, air services, and combating transnational crimes.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Conrado Estrella III will serve as caretakers in Marcos’ absence, said Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez.