New Delhi/Singapore City

The Philippines President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr has underscored his country's commitment to deepen ties with India, at a time when relations between the two countries have been on an upswing. "We will pursue more robust collaboration with friends such as India," President Marcos Jr. said during his address at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. 

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The last few years have seen increased momentum in ties. India extended its support for Philippine sovereignty, particularly in the face of increasing Chinese aggressiveness in the South China Sea. During his visit to Manila earlier this year, Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar reaffirmed India's support for the Philippines.

In April, Chinese coast guard ships fired water cannons at a Philippine vessel, causing heavy damage. This incident followed a similar event in March, where Chinese coast guard ships attacked a Philippine supply boat using water cannons near the Second Thomas Shoal, injuring navy crew members and severely damaging the wooden vessel. 

India has consistently endorsed the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling that invalidated China's expansive claims in the South China Sea. This endorsement aligns with the Philippines' stance and India's commitment to a rules-based international order.

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Also read | BrahMos provides credible deterrence, recognition of India’s defence industry: Philippine Ambassador Ignacio

The bilateral relationship has also been strengthened through naval goodwill visits. Indian Navy ships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, INS Kiltan, and an Indian coast guard vessel visited the Philippines recently, symbolising the growing maritime cooperation between the two countries. In a significant boost to the Philippines' defence capabilities, India has commenced the delivery of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, making the Philippines the first recipient of this advanced weaponry. 

"BrahMos acquisition is a milestone for the Philippines in terms of, you know, Armed Forces modernization and defence, credible defence, but I would also hand it to India. It's also a recognition of India's defence industry and defence capability," Philippines Ambassador Josel Francisco Ignacio told WION in a recent interview. 

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Further deepening defence ties, the Philippines has expressed interest in acquiring India's Advanced Light Helicopter, highlighting the trust in Indian defence technology. India has also appointed a defence attaché in Manila which is expected to enhance defence relations and facilitate closer collaboration.

Last year, the Indian Coast Guard signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Philippine Coast Guard to enhance maritime cooperation.