President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is aiming to strengthen the Philippines’ strategic partnership with India, as he embarks on a five-day official visit that seeks to boost cooperation in defense, trade, agriculture, and technology. His trip comes at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, capping the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries.
In a departure speech at Villamor Air Base, Marcos highlighted shared democratic values and mutual interests that have long shaped PH-India relations. He emphasized that both nations now have the opportunity to transform these values into concrete partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
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Stronger Ties in Defense, Trade, and Maritime Security
President Marcos said he will engage in high-level meetings with Indian leaders and business executives to explore collaborations in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and information technology. He also cited maritime cooperation and seafarer welfare as shared concerns, particularly as both countries border critical trade routes in the Indo-Pacific.
“Our geostrategic positions as coastal states that border the busiest international trade routes in the Indo-Pacific region provide a credible foundation for active and growing maritime cooperation,” Marcos said.
He underscored the importance of upholding international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and expressed interest in working with India to preserve regional stability.
Investment Opportunities and People-to-People Exchanges
The president announced that the Philippines has granted visa-free privileges to Indian travelers, which he said will help increase tourism and strengthen cultural exchanges. He also noted that the Philippines and India enjoy longstanding ties rooted in language, folklore, and tradition, even before the colonial period.
“I want this visit to bring concrete benefits to the people, such as more affordable medicine, greater connectivity, and food security,” he said.
Marcos is leading a delegation that includes Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Trade Secretary Christina Roque, and other key officials. They are expected to meet Indian business leaders in New Delhi and Bengaluru to explore trade and investment opportunities in the region.
Boosting PH’s Global Partnerships
As India rises as the world’s fourth-largest economy, Marcos emphasized the urgency of deepening trade and defense ties with long-valued allies. He reaffirmed his commitment to translating the Philippines’ diplomatic relationships into economic and strategic gains for Filipinos.
“There is much potential for cooperation with India that will mutually benefit our peoples,” he said.
The visit signals the Philippines’ continued pursuit of diversified international partnerships that enhance national security, economic resilience, and regional collaboration.
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