PBBM's trip to India: A brilliant strategic move

In a new era marked by intensifying economic competitions and dynamic geopolitical shifts, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, countries like ours must make important strategic choices to secure our future.

- AMBASSADOR B. ROMUALDEZ

Standing alone is not really an option, and it would be foolhardy for one to wait for trouble to come knocking at the door before reaching out to like-minded friends and building stronger relationships.

President Bongbong Marcos certainly understands this principle very well as we continue to see in his administration a timely and steady push for strategic partnerships—whether in defense, trade, technology, or infrastructure—not only with traditional allies such as the United States and Japan but with other like-minded nations. This, he definitely achieved once again in his recent state visit to India.

PBBM's official trip to our South Asian neighbor was more than just a symbolic gesture or a series of discussions composed of diplomatic platitudes. It was another crucial step in building a foreign policy rooted in balance, resilience, and proactive engagement that also signaled a pragmatic, forward-looking approach to navigating today's global landscape.

Described by the President as "remarkably productive," the visit opened "a multitude of possibilities and areas of potential" with the world's fourth largest economy, with an estimated $446 million in actual direct investments, with more commitments to follow in several areas of potential investments up to $5.7 billion.

"The whole range of possibilities has now become clear to us... I am very happy with the results and glad we have opened new lines of communication," the President remarked.