NEW DELHI – The Philippines and India have officially launched a strategic partnership aimed at reshaping their bilateral relationship, with both nations signaling a strong pivot toward enhanced defense collaboration, regional security, and economic integration. A key highlight: the joint development of submarine infrastructure that could significantly elevate Manila’s naval capabilities.
The announcement came during President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s five-day state visit to India—his first—and included the signing of 13 wide-ranging agreements covering defense, digital technology, space cooperation, maritime law, and tourism.
Submarine project signals deepening military ties
Among the most ambitious plans discussed is India’s support in helping the Philippines develop its submarine infrastructure—a first for Manila. While details remain under wraps, Indian officials confirmed active talks on technology sharing and infrastructure building as part of New Delhi’s growing role as a defense partner in the Indo-Pacific.
This marks a milestone for the Philippines, which is aiming to modernize its military amid rising regional tensions, particularly in the South China Sea. The move aligns with India’s broader outreach strategy to bolster partnerships across Southeast Asia to counterbalance China’s assertiveness.
A strategic partnership with regional implications
Marcos described the new partnership as a “momentous leap” that places India among Manila’s top-tier allies—joining the ranks of Japan, Australia, South Korea, and Vietnam.
“For us, this is a carefully considered and strategic alignment—one that reflects the maturity of our relationship and the challenges of our time,” Marcos said after meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
A detailed 2025–2029 roadmap was also unveiled, setting a comprehensive agenda for the partnership, including:
- Expanded defense cooperation through joint training, military dialogues, and intelligence sharing
- Greater maritime coordination between coast guards and navies
- New agreements on space exploration, cyber cooperation, and science and technology
- A cultural exchange program to deepen people-to-people ties
Indo-Pacific Unity, Rule of Law at Forefront
Beyond bilateral cooperation, Marcos and Modi emphasized their shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific—a pointed message amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.
Marcos thanked India for its support of the 2016 international arbitration ruling that rejected China’s sweeping maritime claims, reaffirming the Philippines’ sovereign rights under international law.
“India has shown consistency in upholding international law. We appreciate its principled stand on maritime rights,” Marcos stated.
Boosting trade, tourism, connectivity
Economic integration also took center stage, with both leaders pushing for a fast-tracked bilateral trade agreement and exploring new opportunities in sectors like pharmaceuticals, digital services, and agriculture.
To encourage more cross-border travel, both countries agreed to resume direct flights by October and enhance tourism cooperation. India also waived visa requirements for Filipino tourists, a move reciprocated by Manila to drive up visitor numbers.
“We’re reconnecting our peoples, our businesses, and our ideas with a shared vision for growth,” said Marcos.
Rescue efforts and regional responsibility
Marcos expressed gratitude to India for helping evacuate Filipino nationals during last year’s Houthi attacks in the Red Sea—an example of the growing trust and operational collaboration between the two countries.
“We’re looking at India not just as a friend, but as a reliable partner during critical times,” Marcos added.
As the Philippines prepares to chair ASEAN in 2026, the new strategic partnership with India sends a clear signal: Manila is looking beyond traditional allies to shape a regional future that is secure, rules-based, and economically dynamic.
This visit cements India’s role as an emerging anchor in the Philippines’ evolving foreign policy—one rooted not only in geography but in shared values and mutual strategic interest.