President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. departed on Monday for a five-day state visit to India, aiming to deepen cooperation with one of Asia’s most dynamic economies.
The visit comes at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and marks the culmination of the 75th anniversary of Philippines–India diplomatic relations.
In his departure speech, Marcos called India a “valued friend of the Philippines,” referencing centuries-old cultural links that predate colonial history.
“Our bilateral relations have seen a measured and stable development that is both comprehensive in scope and multifaceted in nature,” the President said.
He underscored shared democratic values, maritime interests, and regional peace as key pillars for stronger collaboration between the two nations. Marcos also reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to international maritime law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award favoring the Philippines over China.
“There is much potential for cooperation with India that will mutually benefit our peoples,” Marcos added, citing opportunities in defense, trade, health, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, tourism, and digital connectivity.
To boost tourism, the Philippines recently approved visa-free entry for Indian travelers.
During his trip, Marcos will lead a business delegation to New Delhi and Bengaluru—India’s IT hub—to engage with industry leaders, especially in the technology sector.
“I want this visit to bring concrete benefits for the Filipino people, such as more affordable medicine and greater connectivity and food security,” he said.
India, the world’s fourth-largest economy, already has several multinational companies operating in the Philippines, particularly in IT-BPM, pharmaceuticals, and telecommunications.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin will act as caretaker of the government, supported by Education Secretary Sonny Angara and Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III, during the President’s absence.
