Why is the Philippines Ambassador Praising India as a Top Partner?
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Synopsis
The Philippines Ambassador to the US, Jose Manuel del Gallego Romualdez, has celebrated the strong ties between India and the Philippines, highlighting the recent BrahMos missile deal and upcoming collaborations. This relationship is seen as vital for both nations' security and modernization efforts. Discover the details that underscore this growing partnership!
Key Takeaways
- Philippines considers India a key ally.
- BrahMos missile deal enhances military strength.
- Collaboration in technology and defence is underway.
- Strategic partnership aims for regional stability.
- President Marcos' visit marked a significant diplomatic step.
Washington, Nov 13 (NationPress) The Ambassador of the Philippines to the United States, Jose Manuel del Gallego Romualdez, emphasized the robust ties between India and the Philippines, referring to New Delhi as one of Manila's most significant allies and friends.
During a private gathering on Wednesday evening in Washington, Romualdez pointed to India's sale of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines as a testament to a solid defence collaboration.
“We now consider India as one of our top partners and friends. They have shown tremendous support for the Philippines… We are indeed acquiring significant defence equipment like BrahMos and are also collaborating with India on technological advancements,” he stated.
His remarks follow the recent public demonstration of India's BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system by the Philippine Marine Corps.
The $375 million agreement signed in 2022 with India's BrahMos Aerospace equips the Philippines with missiles capable of targeting enemies up to 290 kilometres away, enhancing its deterrence capabilities in the South China Sea. The system is managed by the Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile Battalion as part of the Philippines’ extensive military modernization initiatives.
The Ambassador also reminisced about Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos' visit to India in August, describing it as a “highly productive” trip.
“Our President recently made a state visit to India, which proved to be very fruitful. We are eager to enhance our cooperation with India,” he remarked.
During his 5-day visit, Marcos met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other key officials, where both parties announced an upgraded strategic partnership aimed at strengthening collaboration in trade, defence, and maritime security.
They also agreed to broaden cooperation in sectors like space, tourism, culture, and digital technologies.
Agreements included Indian backing for a pilot initiative to build the Philippines’ Sovereign Data Cloud Infrastructure and an invitation for Manila to participate in the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR).
Both nations also established the Terms of Reference to commence discussions on a Preferential Trade Agreement.
After the discussions, PM Modi stated that both countries were “dedicated to peace, security, prosperity, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region,” while Marcos emphasized, “We aspire to collaborate with you for a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the evolving dynamics between the Philippines and India. This partnership, driven by mutual interests in security and trade, reflects a broader strategy to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The commitment from both nations to collaborate on defence and technology illustrates their dedication to maintaining peace and prosperity amidst regional tensions.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the BrahMos missile deal?
The BrahMos missile deal enhances the Philippines' military capabilities, providing advanced technology for deterrence in the South China Sea.
How does this partnership benefit India and the Philippines?
This partnership fosters stronger defence ties, promotes trade, and enhances regional stability, benefiting both nations strategically.
What was discussed during President Marcos' visit to India?
President Marcos' visit focused on strengthening cooperation in defence, trade, and maritime security, establishing a path for future collaborations.
What are the future plans for collaboration between the countries?
Future plans include expanding partnerships in technology, space, and digital infrastructure, alongside ongoing defence agreements.
How does this partnership impact the Indo-Pacific region?
This partnership reinforces a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, promoting peace, security, and economic collaboration among nations.
