Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the strengthening relationship between India and the Philippines, describing the two countries as “friends by choice and partners by destiny” during a joint press address with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. Modi highlighted that while formal diplomatic relations are relatively new, the cultural connection—exemplified by the Philippines’ Ramayana adaptation, Maharadia Lawana—has ancient roots.
Celebrating the milestone of 75 years of diplomatic ties in 2025, Modi underscored that India and the Philippines not only share a friendship built on the past but also a shared promise for the future. He expressed thanks to the Philippines for condemning the April 22 Pahalgam attack and welcomed Manila’s decision to provide visa-free entry to Indian tourists. In return, India will offer free e-visas to Filipino travelers and work to launch direct flights between Delhi and Manila within the year.
Modi reaffirmed India’s support for the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN chairmanship and its commitment to peace, regional security, and a rules-based Indo-Pacific order. The growing defense partnership and recently concluded agreements on legal cooperation will further strengthen security ties. The two leaders also announced collaboration in areas such as science and technology, joint research, space, and digital infrastructure, including support for developing the Philippines’ sovereign data cloud.
India and the Philippines plan to advance towards a Bilateral Preferential Trade Agreement and have formed a comprehensive action plan to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership. With bilateral trade surpassing $3 billion, both countries aim to quickly conclude a review of the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement to deepen economic ties.
Earlier, President Marcos Jr. received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, marking a new chapter in India-Philippines relations.