New delhi: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to travel to New Delhi, India later this week to participate in the 18th BRICS Summit, which will be held on September 12-13. This visit comes at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
According to Philippines News Agency, BRICS is an international organization currently comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. President Marcos is attending the summit in his capacity as ASEAN 2026 chair. In a Palace briefing, DFA Spokesperson Assistant Secretary Analyn Ratonel mentioned that the summit will address global economic uncertainties, new digital public infrastructure, and collective climate action. This platform will also allow President Marcos to articulate the Philippines' priorities as the ASEAN 2026 chair.
"This participation serves as a strategic opportunity to monitor emerging economic frameworks and represent the region's priorities and perspectives while directly engaging with leaders of major emerging economies," Ratonel stated.
On the sidelines of the summit, President Marcos will hold a meeting with Prime Minister Modi to discuss the advancement of the Philippines-India Strategic Partnership. They plan to review the implementation of the five-year plan of action for 2025-2029 and continue their dialogue on economic issues impacting their nations.
Additionally, President Marcos is scheduled to meet with Indian business leaders to pursue the investment pledges secured during his state visit to India last year. During that five-day visit in August 2025, he managed to secure USD5.8 billion in investment commitments, which he described as one of his most productive foreign engagements.
When questioned about the potential for the Philippines to join BRICS, Ratonel noted that the matter requires "further study" and "close monitoring," particularly examining the experiences of other Southeast Asian countries within the bloc. "As of now, since the invitation was extended to him in his capacity as ASEAN Chair, the Philippines will continue to monitor developments in the region and engage constructively where appropriate to advance our interest," she added.
President Marcos will be accompanied on this trip by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda, and Finance Secretary Frederick Go.
