Phnom penh: Wat Po 5000, a Buddhist temple in Kulen district, Preah Vihear province, has emerged as the primary refuge for civilians fleeing escalating armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai forces. As of early August, the shelter is housing 19,331 displaced individuals, including more than 6,000 children-the highest concentration of evacuees in the region.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Preah Vihear Provincial Deputy Governor Mr. Sok San Dara reported that the centre has been operational since June 8, 2025, when hostilities first intensified. The influx peaked on July 24 following a series of cross-border incursions by Thai military units. Currently, the province hosts 15 displacement centres, with Wat Po 5000 being the largest. "To date, 5,331 displaced families-totaling 19,331 people, including over 6,000 children-remain sheltered here," San Dara stated.
Most evacuees originate from Choam Ksan district, where seven out of eight communes have been evacuated due to the conflict. Only one commune near Thbeng Meanchey district remains unaffected. Entire villages-including Morakot, Bos Sbov, Mom Bey, and Anseh-have been completely abandoned as residents fled for safety.
The crisis deepened on July 24 when renewed Thai military advances triggered another mass displacement. Although a July 28 ceasefire briefly slowed arrivals, tensions flared again on Aug. 3 after Cambodia's Ministry of National Defence warned of possible renewed Thai aggression.
On humanitarian efforts, Mr. San Dara confirmed that provincial authorities have secured ample food, clean water, and sanitation facilities. "We've installed over 200 hygienic latrines and ensured consistent water access. Thanks to generous donor support, food distribution remains stable and well-organised," he said.