India and the Philippines have established a Strategic Partnership, highlighted by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent visit to India, which included joint naval exercises in the South China Sea (SCS). This partnership aims to enhance cooperation in defense, trade, and maritime security amidst rising tensions with China. The Philippines expressed interest in acquiring Indian defense equipment, showcasing India as a reliable strategic partner. India, while not a claimant in the SCS, views the region as vital for its trade, with 55% of its commerce passing through these waters, and seeks to bolster maritime security in the Indo-Pacific through collaborative efforts with the Philippines.