The Philippines and South Korea signed a strategic partnership focused on specific areas such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and the value-added processing of critical minerals for battery production, the Department of Trade and Industry announced.
Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Trade, Economic, and Energy Cooperation with South Korea’s Trade, Industry and Energy Minister Cheong In-kyo on May 14, 2025 in Jeju Island.
The MOU outlines joint initiatives in the identified key areas are aimed at accelerating trade, driving industrial transformation, and spearheading green energy collaboration. This collaboration is expected to advance both countries at the forefront of the green industrial revolution.
“This MOU is the embodiment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s mission to build a nation propelled by strategic global partnerships, environmentally responsible development, and a dynamic industrial sector,” Department of Trade and Industry Roque underscored.
“This is a bold declaration of our collective goal of shaping a future-ready, innovation-driven economy anchored on robust global partnerships and equitable growth for all our citizens,” the trade chief added.
Building upon the momentum of the Philippines-South Korea bilateral free trade agreement that took effect last year, this MOU is a significant leap forward in their economic vision.
Both sides will now continue to work on concrete initiatives on trade, industrial technology, and energy resource development.
As the Philippines prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026, this partnership positions the Philippines hopes to become a regional driver of cooperation and strategic linkages, bridging Southeast Asia’s priorities with global economic trends.
