Prior to the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Thailand in 1949, contacts between our two countries were only through indirect trading. It was only on 14 June 1949 that direct relations between the Philippines and Thailand began as both countries signed the Treaty of Friendship, formalizing their bilateral relationship.

The Philippines and Thailand then established legations at each other’s capitals in 1949, with both countries elevating those to embassy status on 1 January 1956. From then on, relations between the two countries started to strengthen and flourish. Both became founders of SEATO in September 1954 and ASEAN in August 1967, and thereafter joined other regional and international fora. Cooperation likewise expanded outside trade and culture and began covering political, defense, investment, tourism, air services, scientific and technical, telecommunications, agriculture, justice and environment, among others.

Manila and Bangkok, the countries’ capitals, became sister-cities on 24 June 1997. In 1999, as the Philippines and Thailand celebrated 50 years of cordial, harmonious and dynamic friendship, the Philippines renamed Rada Street as Thailand Street in the bustling business district of Makati, while Thailand opted to have Soi Philippines (Philippine Street) at the corner where the Philippine Embassy is located along Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok’s business center.
 
People to people exchanges are at the highest level with the frequent reciprocal visits of Philippine Presidents to Thailand and Thai Heads of State and Government to the Philippines. Noteworthy is the State Visit to the Philippines of Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit on 9 to 14 July 1963 during the term of then President Diosdado Macapagal. After 39 years, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, daughter of former President Macapagal, made her Official Visit to Thailand on 7-8 May 2002. More recently, President Arroyo attended various international meetings in Thailand, including the 14th ASEAN Summits in Hua Hin and Pattaya in 2009.

The Philippines and Thailand aided each other in times of difficulties – becoming better neighbors and friends.

.

The Philippines
Office of the President
Department of Foreign Affairs
Department of Trade & Industry
Department of Tourism
Philippine Media
° The Manila Bulletin Online
° The Philippine Daily Inquirer
° The Philippine Star

Thailand
Office of the Premier
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Thai Media
° Bangkok Post
° The Nation