Romualdez Meets Cambodia’s PM to Discuss Rice Pact and Strengthened Ties

House Speaker Martin Romualdez met Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Monday to begin his two-day official visit, focusing on enhancing collaboration in rice trade, tourism, security, and defense.

Romualdez emphasized the importance of securing a stable and affordable rice supply for the Philippines, particularly in the wake of typhoons Pepito and Kristine, which underscored the country’s vulnerability to extreme weather events.

“Ensuring a stable and affordable rice supply has become a national priority. Collaborating with Cambodia, a leading rice exporter, will help us secure a steady supply of this vital commodity,” Romualdez said in a statement.

Strengthening Ties with Cambodia

The Speaker expressed the Philippines’ readiness to deepen ties with Cambodia’s National Assembly through the Philippines-Cambodia Parliamentarians Friendship Group.

Both leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to working together on issues related to regional peace and security.

Relief Efforts Before Visit

Ahead of his trip, Romualdez spearheaded a joint initiative by the House of Representatives and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, providing 24 truckloads of relief goods and ₱750 million in financial aid to typhoon-affected areas in the Bicol region, including Catanduanes.

The visit is part of broader efforts to strengthen ASEAN partnerships and address pressing issues like food security and disaster resilience.