President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. receives the credentials of Spain’s Ambassador-designate to the Philippines, Xavier Martí Martí, during a ceremony at Malacañang on Wednesday. Mr. Marcos cited the two countries’ deep historical ties and expressed interest in expanding their partnership ahead of the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027. (Photo by Revoli Cortez)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sees opportunities to expand Philippine-Spanish relations as the two countries prepare to mark 80 years of diplomatic ties in 2027.
Marcos expressed optimism about strengthening the partnership during the presentation of credentials by Spain’s Ambassador-designate Xavier Martí Martí at Malacañang on Wednesday.
“The centuries-old relationship between our two countries is unmatched in any other in the history of the Philippines, and I believe also in Spain. It is as deep as any relationship can be between two countries,” Marcos told the envoy.
“Still, the modern world presents us with many opportunities to enlarge and expand the scope of that relationship,” he added.
Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines began in the 16th century and lasted for more than 300 years, shaping the country’s religion, culture, economy and political institutions.
Marcos said he looked forward to working with Martí Martí to identify new ways to strengthen bilateral relations.
For his part, the Spanish envoy conveyed the regards of King Felipe VI and reaffirmed Madrid’s commitment to deepening ties with Manila.
Martí Martí said 2027 would also mark the 25th anniversary of Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day.
He said Spain wants to expand economic and investment ties, strengthen defense and security cooperation, deepen bilateral dialogue and uphold a rules-based international order.
He also cited cultural, educational and people-to-people exchanges as key pillars of the longstanding partnership.
Martí Martí joined Spain’s diplomatic service in 2006 and has served in Peru, Brazil and Kenya. His appointment to the Philippines marks his first posting in the Asia-Pacific region and his first assignment as head of a diplomatic mission.