JAKARTA: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to attend the inauguration of Indonesia’s President-elect Prabowo Subianto and Vice President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka in Jakarta on October 20, according to an announcement from Malacañang. The event marks a significant moment in the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Indonesia.
According to Philippines News Agency, the invitation to President Marcos was extended by outgoing Indonesian President Joko Widodo. The presence of Marcos, along with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, at the inauguration underscores the strong ties between the two nations. Malacañang highlighted the deep-rooted friendship and close people-to-people connections that form the basis of the relationship between the Philippines and Indonesia.
Malacañang emphasized that Marcos’ attendance at the inauguration is a demonstration of the Philippines’ commitment to enhancing bilateral relations with Indonesia. In a meeting held at Malacañan Palace in Manila last September, Pres
ident Marcos and Prabowo Subianto reinforced their dedication to strengthening ties between the two countries. This year marks the 75th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Indonesia, both of which are founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
The Palace regards Indonesia as one of the Philippines’ long-standing partners in Southeast Asia. President Marcos’ first overseas trip as the head of state was to Indonesia for a state visit in September 2022. This visit was reciprocated by President Widodo, who is scheduled to make an official visit to the Philippines in January 2024. Malacañang stated that these high-level visits are a testament to the robust bilateral relations between the two democratic and maritime nations.