Marcos eyes stronger ties with South Korea under new president

Metro Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed confidence in deeper cooperation between the Philippines and South Korea under the leadership of newly elected President Lee Jae-myung.

In a statement, Marcos congratulated Lee on his election victory in the June 4 polls and said he looks forward to strengthening the countries’ strategic partnership.

“On behalf of the Filipino people, I congratulate Lee Jae-myung on his election as President of the Republic of Korea. The Philippines values its deep and enduring ties with the ROK, and I look forward to working with him further to strengthen the Strategic Partnership between our two countries,” said Marcos.

Lee’s election comes six months after his predecessor stepped down amid political unrest. His win is seen as a key moment in South Korea’s efforts to restore stability and renew international engagements.

Relations between the Philippines and South Korea have seen significant progress in recent years, particularly with the formal elevation to a strategic partnership and the signing of the Philippines-Korea Free Trade Agreement.

The agreement is expected to boost trade and investment by reducing tariffs on key products, enhancing economic cooperation between the two nations.

Diplomatic relations between the Philippines and South Korea were established in 1949.