History of political cooperation [fr]

Diplomatic relations

France and the Philippines established diplomatic relations in 1947.

The cross-visits of President Benigno Aquino to Paris (2014) and President François Hollande to the Philippines (2015) strengthened bilateral relations. In 2015, President Hollande’s visit to the victims of typhoon Yolanda and Manila’s appeal was a high point of mobilization ahead of the Paris Climate Conference, which highlighted the importance of environmental issues (climate, marine biodiversity) for both countries. During the Covid crisis, France’s donation of 16 million vaccines reaffirmed bilateral ties of solidarity.

In 2022, the 75th anniversary of bilateral relations coincided with the determination of Presidents Emmanuel Macron and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to raise the level of strategic partnership in the fields of energy, security, food security, global issues and defense and security.

In 2024, the move of the embassy in Manila to new premises, the opening of a full-fledged defense mission and the strengthening of human resources underlined France’s long-term commitment to the Philippines in all areas.

This strengthened presence illustrates the importance of the Philippines in France’s Indo-Pacific strategy.

Bilateral relations are bolstered by regular bilateral consultations between foreign ministries, as well as joint economic and defense committees.