MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. received South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at Malacañang on Tuesday, marking a pivotal two-day visit aimed at deepening defense, maritime, and economic cooperation between the two nations.
The arrival honors took place at the Kalayaan Grounds, where President Marcos and First Lady Liza Marcos formally welcomed President Lee and First Lady Kim Hea Kyung. This visit is significant as it is the first state visit by a South Korean president since the Philippines–South Korea Free Trade Agreement became effective on December 31, 2024.
After the welcome ceremony, President Lee signed the Palace guestbook before holding extensive bilateral talks with President Marcos. Key topics on the agenda include collaboration in defense, maritime security, and other critical sectors amid ongoing global and regional security challenges.
Cabinet members attending the meeting with President Marcos included Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Finance Secretary Frederick Go, Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, Education Secretary Sonny Angara, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr., National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, and Presidential Communications Secretary Dave Gomez.
The visit comes at a time of rising tensions in the Middle East, with possible consequences for international energy markets and supply chains. Following the bilateral session, the leaders are set to deliver a joint press statement and witness the formal signing of agreements strengthening cooperation.
President Lee’s visit coincides with the 77th anniversary of Philippine–South Korean diplomatic relations, originally established in March 1949. Over the years, bilateral relations have been upgraded to a strategic partnership encompassing trade, infrastructure, energy, shipbuilding, and defense modernization.
The two leaders previously met during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Gyeongju last October. On his arrival in the Philippines, President Lee also paid homage to national hero Dr. Jose Rizal at Manila’s Luneta Park after visiting Singapore.
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