State Visit of Philippines President to India
Overview of the Visit
The visit marked his first since assuming office in 2022. It concluded on August 8, 2025, and was significant for strengthening the strategic ties between India and the Philippines.
Strategic Partnership Agreement
- A Strategic Partnership Agreement was signed, enhancing the historical-cultural ties with a focus on hard power.
- This agreement reflects a deeper engagement between the two nations amidst concerns over China's actions in the West Philippine Sea.
Military and Defense Cooperation
- The Indian Navy conducted its first joint maritime exercises with the Philippine Navy in the South China Sea, which was criticized by China.
- India supports the 2016 UNCLOS tribunal arbitration award in favor of the Philippines, advocating for respect of the multilateral order in the Indo-Pacific.
- The Philippines is the first export destination for the BrahMos missile, with continued interest in Indian military hardware.
- Agreements were signed to enhance strategic cooperation across all military services and the Coast Guard.
Economic and Trade Relations
- The bilateral trade volume is currently modest at $3.3 billion in 2024-25.
- However, investments are growing, especially in technology and pharmaceuticals.
- Talks to revise the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) are fast-tracked, and discussions for a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) are on the horizon.
Diplomatic and Regional Significance
- The Philippines is set to chair ASEAN in 2026 and is the coordinator for the ASEAN-India comprehensive strategic partnership.
- This underscores India's commitment to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific beyond the Quad grouping, amidst global geopolitical challenges.
