Singapore’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, is set to visit the Philippines from April 15 to 18, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between the two nations, which have lasted for 55 years. During his visit, he will engage with key government officials, including Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Vice-President and Secretary of Education Sara Duterte, and Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) announced that Dr. Balakrishnan will also meet with Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo, National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano, and members of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Foreign Affairs. A highlight of his trip will be an engagement with the Makati Business Club, a prominent organization dedicated to enhancing the role of the business sector in national development.

Dr. Balakrishnan’s itinerary includes a visit to New Clark City within the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone, where he will be hosted by Delfin Lorenzana, the chairman of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority. Additionally, he plans to tour SIA Engineering (Philippines) and Clark International Airport, emphasizing Singapore’s interest in fostering economic ties and investment opportunities.

The bilateral relationship has continued to flourish, with the Philippines ranking as Singapore’s 16th largest trading partner in merchandise trade in 2023, and Singapore being the fifth-largest export market for the Philippines during the same period. Dr. Balakrishnan will be accompanied by his wife, Joy Balakrishnan, and officials from the MFA throughout the visit.