PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. departed for a five-day state visit to India on Monday, August 4, 2025, aiming to forge stronger economic ties with the world’s fourth-largest economy.
His visit will prioritize securing investments and partnerships in key sectors, including information technology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food security.
In a departure speech at Villamor Air Base, President Marcos emphasized his desire for the visit to yield tangible benefits for Filipinos, such as more affordable medicine, improved connectivity, and enhanced food security. He highlighted the potential for collaboration with Indian companies in IT, pharmaceuticals, and telecommunications, noting the presence of several Indian multinationals already operating in the Philippines.
The President will personally lead business meetings in New Delhi and Bangalore, focusing on high-level engagements with Indian companies.
He will be accompanied by several Cabinet Secretaries to ensure the swift implementation of any agreements reached. Beyond economic cooperation, President Marcos emphasized the shared democratic values and strategic regional interests between the Philippines and India, highlighting their shared commitment to a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.
He underscored the natural partnership between the two countries, citing their similar geopolitical positions as coastal states and their mutual dedication to regional peace and cooperation. The state visit is expected to significantly strengthen the Philippines-India relationship across multiple sectors.
