President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung have vowed to boost cooperation in trade, defense, security, and cultural exchanges during their first phone call on Thursday.
Marcos congratulated Lee, who took office on June 4, 2025, and reaffirmed the Philippines’ gratitude for South Korea’s longstanding support for its development and regional advocacies.
The Philippine leader underscored the need for continued international backing on maritime interests and regional stability, while expressing eagerness to meet Lee at the upcoming APEC Summit in South Korea.
Lee, in turn, pledged stronger ASEAN-ROK engagements as the Philippines prepares to chair ASEAN in 2026.
This year marks the 76th anniversary of diplomatic ties, with South Korea being the Philippines’ fourth-largest trading partner and top tourist market in 2024.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 15, 2025
