Marcos says Philippines open to joining BRICS bloc

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. said the Philippines is open to the possibility of joining the BRICS bloc, as Manila seeks to expand its global partnerships amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

- By Chloe Mari A. Hufana Reporter

“Pl certainly be open to it,” he told India-based news outlet Firstpost in an interview posted on its YouTube channel. “I haven’t given it a lot of thought... We'd have to certainly look into it, but it provides us more options.”

The President noted that while Manila is not “necessarily” planning to join the bloc now, the idea could be studied further with his Cabinet. “We're too concerned looking internally — how to make the economy work, how to bring growth, how to create jobs... so well, it’s a thought,” he added.

His remarks come during a five-day state visit to India that ends on Aug. 8, during which he met with Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deepen diplomatic and economic ties.