India and the Philippines are conducting joint patrols in the South China Sea (SCS), which naturally raises tensions for China. For the first time, three Indian Navy ships are participating in a naval exercise in the Philippines. India’s hydrographic vessel is also part of this exercise. After the supply of BrahMos, the Philippines is looking to purchase more defense equipment from India. This has further heightened China’s concerns about India’s strategic moves in the region, which align with India’s broader strategy.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is on a visit to India. The Philippines and China have had long-standing tensions, with the Philippines troubled by China’s unauthorized claims in the South China Sea. China has been expanding its dominance in the region. Now, India and the Philippines are focusing on enhancing defense, security, and maritime strategic cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. have reportedly signed 13 agreements and memoranda of understanding following bilateral talks.
China Concerned Over India-Philippines Naval Cooperation
Both countries have agreed to finalize cooperation among the three branches of their armed forces. They are also committed to maintaining freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region. China’s strategy of encircling India through alliances with Pakistan and Bangladesh has led India to strengthen ties with China’s traditional rivals, such as Taiwan, South Korea, Vietnam, and the Philippines.
India and the Philippines are conducting joint patrols in the South China Sea, which naturally raises concerns for China. Three Indian Navy ships are participating in a naval exercise in the Philippines for the first time, along with India’s hydrographic vessel. Following the BrahMos deal, the Philippines is keen to acquire more defense equipment from India, further unsettling China.
Defense experts note that the Philippines is another weak point for China, and India has been improving relations with Manila. Diplomatic ties between India and the Philippines were established in 1949. India maintains an embassy in Manila, while the Philippines has one in New Delhi. A Treaty of Friendship was signed on July 11, 1952, and a strategic partnership was established on August 5, 2025.
A New Chapter in India-Philippines Relations
During his visit, President Marcos Jr. referred to the maritime region around India as the “Indo-Pacific” rather than “Asia-Pacific,” implying India’s role as a guardian and protector of the region. His visit marks a new chapter in bilateral relations, with discussions on strengthening defense cooperation.
The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations and is seen as a significant step toward deeper strategic and economic collaboration. Addressing the media, President Marcos highlighted the evolving dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing that the term better reflects today’s global politics, trade, and economy.
He noted that emerging technologies and shifting geopolitics have created new opportunities for both countries. This visit aims to explore these possibilities and strengthen existing ties. President Marcos expressed admiration for
