 "Philippines open to procuring BrahMos, other Indian defence systems amid China threat: Marcos")
Philippines President Bongbong Marcos has said that his country is open to purchasing more BrahMos missiles and other military equipment from India, stressing that “everything is on the table” when it comes to the modernisation of the Philippines’ armed forces.
In an interview with Firstpost Managing Editor Palki Sharma during his visit to India, Marcos described the trip as “very productive” and said the relationship with India is entering “a new phase” as part of efforts to build a “strategic partnership.”
“We are reacting to the challenges we are getting,” he said. “It is my duty to defend the country.”
WATCH: Exclusive: Philippine President on Ties with India, China, US & Trump | Marcos on Firstpost | N18G
On the potential for further defence purchases, including fighter jets and naval platforms, Marcos said, “We must upgrade our equipment to be interoperable with partners. All our options are on the table.” He confirmed that the Philippines is in the process of procuring additional BrahMos missiles and that his government had contacted Indian counterparts to understand how the system was deployed effectively in recent conflicts.
Marcos also praised India’s performance in Operation Sindoor, saying it demonstrated the importance of joint drills and the need for a coalition of like-minded nations.
Coalition to uphold global norms
While asserting that the Philippines was “not preparing for war,” Marcos made it clear that his country is strengthening military preparedness in response to regional challenges—most notably, China’s actions in the South China Sea.
“We are not against anyone. We are for defending our territory,” he said, adding that any unilateral attempt to alter boundaries must be opposed. He warned of the risks of escalation due to “some guy pressing the wrong button,” and underlined the need for open communication lines.
Calling for a global coalition, Marcos said: “One country cannot alone solve global challenges. We need a coalition of like-minded countries that share our values and adhere to global laws.”
He also welcomed India’s growing role in the Indo-Pacific. “India ramping up presence in the region is a good thing. It shows we are concerned about peace and security in the South China Sea. The problem there will affect global commerce and trade.”
Asked if New Delhi can be a primary weapons supplier for the Philippines, Marcos replied, “I have no doubt. Indian equipment has good quality and performance.”
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More ShortsOn China: Firm but pragmatic
While acknowledging that China came up during his talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Marcos said the conversation was “tangential.” He emphasised that Manila was “not a puppet state” and that its alliances were driven by its own strategic needs.
“Why should we turn down partners who also face the Chinese threat?” he asked, adding that the Philippines “will not cede one square inch of territory” and “will not give up on our sovereignty.”
Even as he maintained that the Philippines seeks peace, Marcos expressed concern about the increasing risk of conflict in the region. “We want to avoid a shooting war,” he said, while also noting that “if there is all-out war [in Taiwan], we will be drawn into it.”
He added that the Philippines would act swiftly to protect its citizens in such a scenario.
Marcos reiterated that while modernising the military, the Philippines aims to remain “a friend to all and enemy to none.”
India and the Philippines have been steadily enhancing their defence partnership, with both countries emphasising freedom of navigation, adherence to international law, and regional stability.
India and the Philippines on Tuesday decided to elevate their ties to a Strategic Partnership with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr agreeing for expeditious conclusion of the negotiations of the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between India and the Philippines for further promotion of mutual trade.
The two countries agreed to enhance defence cooperation, with President Marcos thanking PM Modi for cooperation in the area of defence industry and export of platforms, including the BrahMos.
The diplomatic relationship between the two countries was established in November 1949. Both countries are now celebrating the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
Economic and commercial engagement is an important aspect of the India-Philippines bilateral relationship. Bilateral trade between India and the Philippines reached 3.5 billion USD in 2023-24. There is a notable presence of Indian companies in the Philippines, in the areas of IT and ITES, health-care and pharmaceuticals, textiles, infrastructure, FMCG, chemicals, automobiles, agriculture, among others.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced that India will be offering free e-visas to Filipino tourists, in a reciprocal move following the Philippines’ decision to grant visa-free entry to Indian nationals.
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