'Duty to defend the country': Philippines President Marcos open to buy Indian defence equipment including BrahMos

Philippines President Bongbong Marcos

Philippines President Bongbong Marcos, in an interview with Firstpost's Managing Editor Palki Sharma, has said that Manila is open to acquire more Indian military equipment including BrahMos missiles.

He said that “everything is on the table” when it comes to the modernisation of the Philippines’ armed forces.

“We are reacting to the challenges we are getting. It is my duty to defend the country," he said.

When asked on additional defencse deals including fighter jets and naval platforms, Marcos said, “We must upgrade our equipment to be interoperable with partners. All our options are on the table.”

He confirmed that the Philippines is in the process of buying additional BrahMos missiles. He also said that his government is in contact with Indian counterparts to understand how the system was deployed in recent conflicts.

Additionally, when asked if India can be a primary weapons supplier, Marcos replied, “I have no doubt. Indian equipment has good quality and performance.”

Marcos also said that the relationship with India is entering “a new phase” as part of efforts to build a “strategic partnership.” He praised India’s performance in Operation Sindoor, saying it demonstrated the importance of joint drills and the need for a coalition of like-minded nations.

The President said that though they are “not preparing for war,” military preparedness is being strengthen in response to regional challenges, especially due China’s actions in the South China Sea.

“We are not against anyone. We are for defending our territory,” he said.

Marcos further called for a global coalition to solve global challenges. “One country cannot alone solve global challenges. We need a coalition of like-minded countries that share our values and adhere to global laws," he said.