President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will seek updates on USD5.8 billion in Indian investment commitments and pursue broader trade and investment opportunities with major emerging economies when he attends the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Sept. 12-13.
The commitments, secured during Marcos’ state visit to India in August 2025, cover technology, health, energy, and infrastructure. Marcos is expected to meet Indian business leaders on the sidelines of the summit to discuss their progress and explore further areas for economic cooperation.
Marcos is also expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to review the Philippines-India Strategic Partnership and implementation of their five-year Plan of Action for 2025 to 2029.
The two leaders are expected to exchange views on economic issues affecting both countries, as Manila seeks to deepen commercial ties with India and expand opportunities for Philippine businesses.
Marcos will attend the 18th BRICS Summit at Modi’s invitation and in his capacity as ASEAN chair this year.
Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Analyn Ratonel said the summit gives the Philippines and ASEAN an opportunity to engage major emerging economies and diversify trade and investment relationships.
“Creating synergies doon sa priorities ng ASEAN and BRICS can lead to economic opportunities, trade diversification, regional security, and support for climate resilience,” Ratonel said Wednesday.
The President is also expected to engage other participating leaders, providing opportunities to discuss bilateral and regional economic cooperation.
Ratonel said Philippine engagement with BRICS would remain anchored on ASEAN centrality while recognizing opportunities to work with major emerging economies.
The BRICS engagement comes as the Philippines seeks to widen its economic partnerships beyond traditional markets and attract capital into sectors including infrastructure, energy, technology, and health.
“Through this visit, the President seeks to ensure that our modern partnerships remain open, resilient, and capable of delivering prosperity to our people,” Ratonel said.
