Philippines President Marcos begins his five-day visit to India

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. arrived in New Delhi on Monday, 4 August, on a five-day state visit, marking his first official trip to India since taking office in 2022.

The visit comes as both countries look to deepen ties across defense, trade, health, agriculture, tourism, and digital cooperation.

“As I depart for India, I carry with me the Philippines’ intent to explore opportunities for cooperation across a broad spectrum of common interests,” Marcos said in a statement before leaving Villamor Air Base in Manila. “India is a valued friend and partner. Together, we will navigate the complexities of our time and chart a course of mutual understanding and development.”

In the lead-up to the visit, in June, the Philippines had extended visa-free access to Indian travelers , Marcos said, adding, “We believe this move will boost our tourism sector and strengthen people-to-people ties.”

Marcos is accompanied by first lady Louise Araneta Marcos, several cabinet ministers, senior officials, and a business delegation.

His official talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi are scheduled for Tuesday. He is also expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu and external affairs minister S. Jaishankar.

The ministry of external affairs said the visit offers a “timely opportunity to further deepen and broaden bilateral cooperation,” noting that the Philippines is a key partner in its Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific strategy.

“Both countries share a strong interest in a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific,” the MEA said.

Defense is expected to be a top agenda item.

India’s BrahMos Aerospace and the Philippines had earlier signed a $375 million deal for supersonic cruise missiles in 2022.

Manila is now exploring further defense purchases, including the Akash surface-to-air missile system, Reuters reported, citing unidentified Indian officials.

The two countries also held their first-ever joint naval sail in the South China Sea from 3–4 August, a move closely watched by Beijing.

The Indian Navy deployed the INS Kadmatt, while the Philippine Navy sent BRP Ramon Alcaraz.

“The exercise symbolises our shared commitment to uphold international law and promote maritime security,” a Philippine Navy spokesperson said.

Marcos is expected to travel to Bengaluru later this week to meet Indian industry leaders and tech companies, with the focus being on digital collaboration, startup engagement, and healthcare innovation.

The visit also coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines.

Marcos said both countries were now working to “finalize key agreements that will bolster cooperation across priority sectors.”

His last meeting with Modi was during the ASEAN-India Summit in Laos in October 2024.

“India and the Philippines are aligned by shared values, common interests, and mutual respect,” Marcos said. “This visit is about taking that alignment forward with purpose.”