S. Korea, Philippines Pledge Stronger Ties to Tackle Global Uncertainties
By Reuters | 03 Mar, 2026

Trump tariffs, AI and China's territorial claims are among key concerns addressed during President Lee Jae Myung's visit to Manila for talks with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung shake hands during a bilateral meeting at the presidential palace in Manila, Philippines, March 3, 2026. Rolex Dela Pena/Pool via REUTERS

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos met South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Manila on Tuesday, where they discussed ways to deepen economic and security ties. 

Lee was in Manila on a state visit. 

Marcos said both sides "recognize growing uncertainty in geopolitical developments," and agreed on the need to uphold a rules‑based international order, including in the maritime domain.

The Philippines and South Korea agreed to expand cooperation in shipbuilding, nuclear energy and artificial intelligence.  

Lee said the two countries will also cooperate in infrastructure and defense industries.   Lee added that South Korea and the Philippines plan to work together on critical minerals and supply chains.

The two leaders also discussed the situation in the MiddleEast during their talks.

South Korean companies will help the modernization of th ePhilippine military, Lee said 

The countries signed MOUs in various sectors, including digital technology, procurement of specific defense equipment, agriculture, intellectual property, foreign language education, culture, and police investigations.

(Reporting by Mikhail Flores and Heejin Kim; Editing by David Stanway)