President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday welcomed the signing of several key bilateral agreements during the Official Visit of Paraguayan President Santiago Peña Palacios to Malacañan Palace, marking a significant step toward strengthening relations between the Philippines and Paraguay.
During a joint press conference, President Marcos described his discussions with President Peña as productive and forward-looking, highlighting shared priorities in agriculture, trade, renewable energy, and diplomatic cooperation.
“President Peña and I discussed the potential of increasing trade and investments between our two nations, starting with generating awareness and interest among businesses of both sides, with the longer-term objective of identifying and enabling economic and commercial opportunities,” President Marcos said.
The Philippine President underscored the growing opportunities for Philippine exports to Paraguay, particularly tuna, sardines, and milkfish products, noting that expanded market access could further boost local industries and support Filipino producers.
To advance economic cooperation, both leaders welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and Paraguay’s Investment and Export Network (REDIEX), aimed at strengthening institutional and commercial partnerships between the two countries.
Complementing these initiatives, the Philippines and Paraguay also signed a Visa Waiver Agreement for holders of ordinary passports. The agreement is expected to promote greater business activity, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations.
In support of deeper diplomatic engagement, both leaders likewise witnessed the signing of an MOU on Mutual Cooperation in the Field of Diplomatic Training between the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and the Paraguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
President Marcos and President Peña also exchanged views on political and economic developments in their respective countries, as well as regional priorities, including the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN Chairship in 2026 and Paraguay’s Presidency of MERCOSUR.
President Marcos expressed optimism that President Peña’s visit would pave the way for stronger and more dynamic bilateral relations.
“We have a lot of work ahead of us to make sure that we keep the momentum going in our bilateral relations,” President Marcos emphasized.
The President also conveyed his appreciation to the Paraguayan delegation for what he described as a “historic and productive visit.”
President Peña arrived in the Philippines on Sunday for a two-day Official Visit, marking the first presidential visit between the Philippines and Paraguay since the establishment of diplomatic relations on December 12, 1962.
Upon arrival, President Peña was welcomed by Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque and other Philippine officials.
