President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced on Monday night that the Philippines and India are set to formally upgrade their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, marking a major milestone in their decades-long relationship.
Speaking before the Filipino community in New Delhi, Marcos shared the significant development ahead of his official meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“For seven and a half decades, we have had excellent relations with India. But tomorrow, this relationship is going to receive a major boost, a major upgrade,” Marcos declared. “The Prime Minister and I will inaugurate a strategic partnership between the Philippines and India.”
According to the President, this deeper level of cooperation would cover broader and more critical areas including defense, trade and investment, health, tourism, and others that both countries have yet to fully explore together.
The announcement came just hours after Marcos landed in India for a five-day state visit, which was made upon the invitation of Prime Minister Modi.
At the same gathering, the President reiterated that his foreign trips are not merely ceremonial, but are always anchored in a mission to bring concrete benefits to Filipinos, particularly those overseas.
He also expressed admiration for the Filipino community in India, acknowledging their contribution to the country’s image abroad. “You have shown the world what a Filipino truly is,” Marcos told the crowd, commending their professionalism and resilience.
