Strategic Relations:

·       Both countries consider China a common challenge, aligning their strategic interests within India’s Act East policy.

·       Collaboration within multilateral forums like the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Defence and Security Cooperation:

·       Contract signed to supply the BrahMos missile system.

·       Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Industry and Logistics cooperation.

Trade and Investments:

·       Bilateral trade amounted to USD 3.05 billion in 2022-23.

·       India is the largest supplier of pharmaceutical products to the Philippines.

·       Indian investments in the Philippines are valued at approximately US $5 billion.

Developmental Cooperation:

·       Philippines benefits from India’s capacity-building programme, particularly under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation initiative.

·       India offers scholarships to Filipino students through the ‘Study in India’ programme.

Diaspora and Educational Ties:

·       The Indian community in the Philippines is estimated to be around 150,000.

·       Indian students pursue medical studies in the Philippines.

Humanitarian Assistance:

·       India provided support during crises such as the aftermath of super typhoon Haiyan (2013) and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Challenges in Relations:

·       Potential for deeper trade and investment relations remains largely untapped.

·       Fluctuating relations between the Philippines and China pose challenges to bilateral ties.