PBBM eyes trade, tech, pharma deals with India

President Marcos said his state visit to India will focus on securing investments and partnerships in information technology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food security, as the Philippines seeks stronger ties with the world's fourth-largest economy.

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS

"I want this visit to bring concrete benefits to the people, such as more affordable medicine and greater connectivity and food security," the President said in a departure speech at Villamor Air Base on Monday, Aug. 4. His plane took off at 10:44 a.m.

He said the Philippine delegation will explore a broad spectrum of shared interests: from defense, to trade, investment, health, pharmaceuticals, connectivity, agriculture, tourism, and many other areas.

Business delegation

The President will personally lead business meetings in New Delhi and Bangalore, targeting high-level engagements with Indian companies in the IT sector and other industries.

"I have with me several Cabinet secretaries who will make certain that the vision of a close strategic relationship with India will turn into a reality as soon as possible," he said.

"There are already Indian multinational companies that are operating in the Philippines in IT-BPM, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications industries, and many, many more other sectors," he added.