Phl-India ties key to enhancing reg’l security — Solon

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada on Thursday expressed strong support for the newly forged strategic security agreements between the Philippines and India.

During his state visit to India, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. witnessed the formal elevation of Manila-New Delhi’s bilateral ties through a declaration on the establishment of a Strategic Partnership that further deepens cooperation in areas such as defense, security, trade, science and technology, and tourism.

In a statement,  Estrada hailed these developments as a significant step toward enhancing regional security and cooperation amid growing tensions in the Asia-Pacific, particularly in the South China Sea (SCS).

“I stand in full support of the security deals reached between our government and India,” Estrada stressed, noting that “these agreements strengthen strategic ties as both nations navigate tensions with China across the Asia-Pacific.”

Estrada also emphasized the importance of India’s addition to the Philippines’ network of allies working toward maritime security and regional peace.

“Malaking bagay na dumagdag ang bansang India sa mga kaalyado nating kaisa sa hangarin na mapahusay ang seguridad sa dagat at mapalakas ang pagtutulungan sa pagpapanatili ng kapayapaan sa Indo-Pacific region (It’s a huge thing that the India adds among our allied nations that seeks maritime security and enhancing collaboration to maintain peace in the Indo-Pacific region,” he said.

The senator underscored that the benefits of the agreements go beyond diplomacy, directly impacting the lives and safety of Filipinos.

“Safer borders and more secure seas means better protection for our fishermen and maritime personnel,”  Estrada said, referencing long-standing issues faced by Filipino fishers in contested waters.

President Marcos and Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the signing and exchange of multiple agreements and terms of reference, including those facilitating military-to-military staff talks between their respective military forces from the three services, as well as enhanced maritime cooperation between their coast guards.

The President’s visit to India marks a pivotal moment in deepening defense and economic cooperation between the two democratic nations.