Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr have elevated bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, emphasizing enhanced defense cooperation and growing trade ties. Discussions highlighted joint military exercises, exchange of training programs, and arms and equipment supplies from India to the Philippines. Modi expressed support for freedom of navigation and backed the Philippines' ASEAN presidency. Marcos Jr extended solidarity to India over the Pahalgam terror attack and underscored the shared commitment to combating terrorism. Bilateral trade between India and the Philippines reached $3.3 billion in 2024-2025, with both leaders calling for a review of the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement and progress toward an India-Philippines Preferential Trade Agreement. Marcos Jr also stressed the importance of a secure, free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region during his address in Delhi. The two leaders affirmed their shared aspirations for an inclusive Indo-Pacific and recognized their countries as high-growth economies. The visit included Marcos Jr meeting with Indian President Droupadi Murmu and addressing the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). The strategic partnership aligns with India's Act East Policy and ASEAN centrality, reflecting a broader regional realignment amid evolving global geopolitical dynamics.