President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. lauded South Korea for its unwavering support to the Philippines and the recent ratification of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.
The FTA, ratified on Nov. 14 this year, will open new opportunities for Philippine tropical fruits such as bananas and pineapples in the Korean market.
“We are also thankful to the Republic of Korea for the overwhelming support of your National Assembly for the ratification of our FTA, which came much earlier than we had expected,” President Marcos said.
The President made the remarks during the ceremonial turnover of the Korea Partnership for Innovation of Agriculture (KOPIA) Greenhouse and Postharvest Facilities in Lucban, Quezon.
The FTA is expected to bolster trade between the two nations by granting better market access for Philippine agricultural products.
President Marcos said the agreement is a milestone in strengthening ties and fostering mutual economic growth.
The President also expressed his gratitude to the South Korean government for its continued belief in the Filipino people and its consistent support, including initiatives like the KOPIA Greenhouse and Postharvest Facilities.
He emphasized how partnerships like these contribute to advancing sustainable development in the Philippines.
“You have reinforced our call for a brighter and more sustainable future for all,” President Marcos told the Korean government.
The Philippines and South Korea mark 75 years of enduring bilateral relations this year, highlighting decades of cooperation and shared goals.
President Marcos underscored the importance of the FTA as a symbol of the strong partnership between the two nations, which has consistently aimed to promote economic stability and agricultural innovation.
This milestone signifies another step forward in the Philippines’ commitment to enhancing global trade relations and supporting the agricultural sector’s growth. PND
