UN and Asean play a major role for the country

President Marcos' foreign trips have always been concentrated on strengthening diplomatic ties and security relations with other nations who share our belief in the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

- AMBASSADOR B. ROMUALDEZ

At the same time, the President's interactions with other leaders have put the Philippines on the radar as a viable investment destination, providing opportunities to attract foreign direct investments and boost trade relations that would benefit the Philippine economy.

A prime example was his state visit to India that was not only successful but also "remarkably productive," with $446 million in actual direct investments. The five-day state visit gave rise to "a multitude of possibilities and areas of potential," as seen in investment pledges amounting to over $5.7 billion in key sectors that include digital infrastructure, renewable energy, manufacturing, health care and information technology-business process management.

The visit to India also resulted in the signing of 13 bilateral agreements covering defense and maritime cooperation, agriculture, science and technology, space research, fintech and cultural exchange.

The President's upcoming trip to Cambodia is important as it will build on the momentum gained following Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet's official visit to the Philippines last February, resulting in the signing of eight bilateral agreements in key areas that include agriculture, trade and investment, tourism, education as well as information and communications technology.

That Prime Minister Hun's first official visit for 2025 was to the Philippines is seen by many as noteworthy, considering Cambodia's close ties to China and thus, enhanced relations would be valuable to the Philippines as it prepares for chairmanship of ASEAN in 2026.