New Delhi, Aug 5 (Reporter) Philippines President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan today, marking the start of his five-day state visit to India. On his arrival at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Philippines President was received by President Droupadi Murmu in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is President Marcos Jr.’s first official visit to India since assuming office in 2022. His visit carries added significance as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and the Philippines. During the ceremonial reception today, President Marcos was also accorded a guard of honour. Accompanied by first lady Louise Araneta Marcos and a high-level delegation that includes several Cabinet ministers, President Marcos arrived in New Delhi yesterday. Upon his arrival, he was warmly received by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita. "India & the Philippines are celebrating the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties. This visit will lead to further strengthening of India-Philippines relations," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) posted on X. The Philippines President met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in the national capital yesterday and said that he is confident that the bilateral talks between PM Modi and Philippines President will significantly deepen the bilateral partnership. Several dignitaries, including External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, were present at the occasion. President Marcos is scheduled to lay a wreath at Rajghat, followed by formal bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House. The leaders are expected to witness the exchange of key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and deliver press statements. Later in the day, President Marcos will meet Union Health Minister JP Nadda and subsequently call on President Droupadi Murmu. He is also scheduled to travel to Bengaluru, where he will meet Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot. Diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines were established in November 1949. Over the decades, the two countries have developed a robust partnership spanning trade and investment, defence and maritime cooperation, healthcare, agriculture, digital technologies, and education. India’s ties with the Philippines form a key pillar of its Act East Policy and its broader Indo-Pacific strategy. President Marcos’ visit in India at the invitation of PM Modi is expected to elevate bilateral ties and open new avenues for strategic cooperation between the two democratic and maritime neighbours...////...