Philippines Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel del Gallego Romualdez has praised the growing partnership between New Delhi and Manila, describing India as one of the Philippines’ closest and most reliable partners. Speaking at a private gathering in Washington on Wednesday evening, he underscored the remarkable progress in defense cooperation, particularly India’s supply of the BrahMos missile system.
Romualdez noted that India has consistently supported the Philippines’ security and modernization goals. He highlighted that Manila is not only acquiring the BrahMos system but is also expanding its collaboration with India in technology and other defense capabilities. His remarks come shortly after the Philippine Marine Corps showcased its newly acquired BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, marking a significant milestone in the country’s military upgrade.
The Philippines procured the system under a $375 million agreement signed in 2022 with BrahMos Aerospace, an India-Russia joint venture. The missiles, which can engage targets up to 290 kilometres away, are expected to strengthen the country’s deterrence posture in the South China Sea, an area marked by escalating tensions. The system is now operated by the Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile Battalion as part of Manila’s long-term modernization blueprint.
The Ambassador also reflected on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent state visit to India, describing it as highly productive. During the five-day stay, Marcos met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Indian officials, a visit that produced an upgraded strategic partnership aimed at strengthening ties across defense, trade, and maritime cooperation.
Both countries agreed to deepen collaboration in emerging areas such as space technology, digital innovation, tourism, and cultural exchanges. One of the key initiatives included India’s commitment to support a pilot project establishing the Philippines’ Sovereign Data Cloud Infrastructure — a step toward enhancing Manila’s digital resilience. India also invited the Philippines to join the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), which plays a critical role in maritime situational awareness.
In another major development, the two sides adopted the Terms of Reference to initiate discussions on a Preferential Trade Agreement, aimed at boosting commercial links and market access.
After their talks, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed that both nations are dedicated to promoting peace, stability, and a rules-based Indo-Pacific. President Marcos echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the Philippines is eager to work alongside India to maintain a free and open regional order.
