Philippines hopes for early return of democracy in Thailand

DFA spokesman Charles Jose: Concern for Thailand. AP FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines on Thursday expressed hopes for the return of democracy and normalcy in Thailand where the military declared a coup d’etat Thursday afternoon.

“The Philippines notes the latest developments in Thailand. In line with previous statements of the Asean Foreign Ministers, the Philippines supports a peaceful resolution of the present situation,” Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesman Charles Jose said in a statement.

“The Philippines likewise hopes for an early return to normalcy consistent with democratic principles, the rule of law and the will and interest of the Thai people,” the statement added.

The Thai military previously declared martial law following almost seven months of political instability that saw former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra removed from office by the Constitutional Court of Thailand on May 7, 2014.