Marcos Concludes India Visit With Press Conference
In a historic visit that marked the 75th year of Philippines-India diplomatic relations, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. touched down in India from August 4 to 8, 2025. The trip, replete with ceremonial events and high-level meetings, culminated in the signing of 13 bilateral agreements and 18 business deals[2][3][4]. These deals have elevated the relationship between the two nations to a strategic partnership.
The agreements cover a wide range of sectors, including defense, maritime cooperation, trade, digital technologies, agriculture, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure projects such as airports and energy development[3][4]. Notably, the Indian GMR Group expressed interest in Philippine infrastructure projects like the Sangley Airport[3][4].
One of the key agreements signed during the visit was a potential Philippine-India Preferential Trade Agreement, a strategic move aimed at enhancing economic ties between the two countries[3]. President Marcos described the visit as "one of the most productive and constructive visits" he has ever had[3].
During a press briefing in Bangalore near the end of the visit, President Marcos emphasised the importance of the strengthened bilateral ties and new agreements as part of efforts to boost economic development and address infrastructure needs in the Philippines[3][5].
The visit also included bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu[6]. The press conference initially scheduled for 8 pm on Friday, August 8, was moved to Saturday, August 9[7]. Once it airs, the conference can be watched on our website's YouTube channel[7].
In summary, the visit has resulted in the signing of 13 bilateral agreements covering defense, trade, digital tech, healthcare, maritime, and infrastructure. The relationship between the Philippines and India has been elevated to a strategic partnership. Emphasis has been placed on a future Preferential Trade Agreement. President Marcos expressed a positive outlook on the visit's contribution to the Philippines’ economic growth and development as expressed during his Bangalore briefing[2][3][4][5].
The visit by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to India has led to the signing of 13 bilateral agreements, which range from defense and trade to digital technologies and infrastructure projects. The agreements, including a potential Preferential Trade Agreement, are aimed at boosting economic ties and addressing infrastructure needs in the Philippines, as emphasized by President Marcos during a press briefing in Bangalore.
