What happened?
On August 4, 2025, Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr arrived in New Delhi for a five-day state visit, his first to India since assuming office in 2022. The visit marks a significant milestone as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines. President Marcos was welcomed by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, along with a high-level delegation including First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos and several cabinet ministers. During his visit, President Marcos is scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
Why it matters to India
President Marcos Jr’s visit underscores the growing strategic importance of India-Philippines ties in the Indo-Pacific region. The engagement aligns with India’s ‘Act East’ Policy, Vision MAHASAGAR, and its broader Indo-Pacific vision. Established in 1949, India-Philippines relations span across key sectors including defence, maritime cooperation, trade, investment, pharmaceuticals, and digital technologies. This visit offers both sides an opportunity to elevate their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN and set a forward-looking agenda for regional collaboration. Rooted in shared values and historical connections, the warm bilateral relationship continues to deepen through high-level engagement and sectoral cooperation.