New Delhi [India], August 5: It wasn’t a flashy affair. No sky banners, no roaring applause. Just two leaders, one from Delhi, the other from Manila, walking down a diplomatic path with quiet confidence and something more, mutual respect.
The Philippines’ President arrived in India, but it didn’t feel like a routine trip. Something about it was different. You could sense it from the body language, the tone of the statements, even the cultural nods, “Mabuhay,” said the Indian PM, with a smile that didn’t feel rehearsed.
This year, both countries complete 75 years of formal diplomatic relations. That’s a number. But the bond? That goes deeper, older, maybe even forgotten for a while. As PM Modi pointed out, the Ramayana itself, or at least its cousin version, Maharadia Lawana, lives in the Philippines too. That’s not just heritage. That’s shared cultural DNA.
Not Just a Title, but a Test
So what came out of this visit? A lot, actually. But let’s start with the headline: India and the Philippines have decided to become Strategic Partners. It’s official now. Not just handshakes and high tea. A full action plan has been signed and is ready to go.
There’s something refreshing about the honesty here. Both sides admit that while trade has reached the 3 billion dollar mark, it can go further. And it should. They’re pushing to fast-track the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement review, and now, for the first time, they’re discussing a bilateral preferential trade deal too.
But it’s not all about money. In fact, what made this visit interesting was how scattered, in a good way, the areas of cooperation are. Tech, health, automobiles, even rice research made the cut. Yes, rice. At a lab in Varanasi, scientists are developing rice with a super-low glycemic index. Healthier, smarter, probably tastier too. Turns out, food science is a part of diplomacy.
Space, Science, and Some Serious Stuff
There’s a lot happening behind the scenes. Artificial Intelligence, virology, and additive manufacturing, joint research is underway. A fresh science and tech cooperation roadmap was signed, giving the whole thing structure.
And here’s the kicker: India and the Philippines are now working on space collaboration. No exaggeration. An agreement is in place, laying the groundwork for joint work beyond the atmosphere. No drama, just a quiet step toward a bigger frontier.
Honestly, this part of the visit didn’t get much press. But it probably should have.
Security, the Sea, and a Signal to the Region
Now, let’s talk about the waters. India and the Philippines both sit in a complex ocean neighborhood. So naturally, defence matters came up, and not just in words.
While the two leaders met in Delhi, three Indian naval ships were already participating in joint drills off Philippine shores. That’s a first. And they weren’t alone. A hydrography ship was there too, mapping and monitoring.
Legal ties in security also deepened. New agreements on mutual legal help and transferring sentenced persons were signed. Again, not flashy. But important.
Then came a moment that hit home. The Philippine President condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Kashmir. It wasn’t performative. It felt like solidarity, plain and clear.
India, for its part, welcomed the Philippines into the Indian Ocean Fusion Centre, a regional node for maritime intelligence sharing.
Visas, Flights, and Faces
There were things in this visit that will directly impact ordinary people. The Philippines announced visa-free entry for Indian travellers. A big deal, especially for young tourists and business folk. India responded with free e-visas for Philippine nationals.
And yes, plans are already in motion to launch direct flights between Delhi and Manila. It’s about time. A Cultural Exchange Programme was also signed. This isn’t the kind that gets printed and forgotten. From performances to exhibits and educational tie-ups, it has the potential to keep this relationship alive where it matters, in hearts, not headlines.
India also offered support in building cloud data infrastructure in the Philippines. Not very romantic, but pretty vital in today’s world. Plus, they’ll be adding more Quick Impact Projects, small, fast, local development efforts with big visibility.
Beyond Diplomacy, Toward Direction
The big picture? Both countries want a free, peaceful Indo-Pacific. They believe in rules, in order, in keeping the seas open. That much was made clear.
And with the Philippines set to lead ASEAN next year, India has offered full support. That could mean more influence, more stability, and perhaps, fewer surprises in the region.
Prime Minister Modi ended with a line that sounded more poetic than political: “India and the Philippines are friends by choice, and partners by destiny.”
You don’t hear that kind of phrasing every day. But maybe you should.
