Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. held his first telephone conversation with President Lee Jae Myung of the Republic of Korea (ROK) on 14 August 2025, reaffirming the robust and enduring Strategic Partnership between the Philippines and the ROK. President Marcos also conveyed his warm congratulations to President Lee, who assumed office on 4 June 2025, and expressed full support for his administration. Both leaders also reiterated their mutual commitment to strengthening cooperation across key areas, including trade and investment, defense and security, and people-to-people exchanges. 

During their phone call, President Marcos expressed deep appreciation for the ROK’s longstanding support for the Philippines’ national development and advocacies. He also highlighted the importance of sustained international support for the Philippines’ maritime interests and regional stability, in accordance with international law. Both leaders looked forward to meeting in person during upcoming high-level events, including the 2025 APEC Summit which the ROK will host later this year. President Lee also conveyed support for advancing ASEAN-ROK relations, as the Philippines assumes ASEAN Chairship in 2026.

This high-level exchange builds on more than seven decades of diplomatic ties, established on 3 March 1949. The Strategic Partnership, formalized through a Joint Declaration on 7 October 2024, continues to serve as a foundation for expanding PH-ROK cooperation in political, economic, and socio-cultural spheres. 

The ROK is the biggest source of foreign investments to the Philippines from January to June 2025.  In 2024, the ROK ranked as the Philippines’ 4th largest trading partner, with total bilateral trade reaching USD 13.2 billion. The ROK was also the Philippines’ top source of foreign tourists in 2024, accounting for over 26 percent of total arrivals, underscoring the dynamic and multifaceted relationship between our nations. END 

Source: Philippine Communications Office, "PBBM reaffirms strategic partnership with South Korea" released 14 August 2025