President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier met at Malacañan Palace to celebrate over 70 years of bilateral relations, pledging to deepen cooperation in national development, economic investment, and the shared defense of democratic values.
During a luncheon hosted at the Ceremonial Hall, President Marcos emphasized Germany’s role as a critical, long-standing partner in the Philippines’ growth.
“For over seven decades of bilateral relations, Germany has become a very important partner of the Philippines in various aspects of cooperation that impact our national development,” President Marcos stated, honoring President Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Büdenbender.
In his response, President Steinmeier invoked the deep, historic ties between the two nations, specifically referencing the town of Wilhelmsfeld, Germany—affectionately known as “Noli Village.” It was there 140 years ago that Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal completed his seminal novel, Noli Me Tángere.
Steinmeier drew a direct line from Rizal’s fight against colonialism to the modern shared responsibilities of both nations.
“We in Germany likewise know that democracy, rule of law and human rights cannot be taken for granted,” President Steinmeier said. “Defending these values remains our common task. They are the foundation of our partnership.”
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Economic Investment: Hundreds of German enterprises are actively planning future investments in the Philippine economy.
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Human Capital: Approximately 30,000 Filipinos currently reside in Germany, working as vital “ambassadors between societies” across engineering, science, healthcare, and service sectors.
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Geopolitical Alignment: Both leaders emphasized a mutual commitment to global peace, sovereignty, and international rule of law.
President Steinmeier also extended his deepest sympathies to the Filipino people following the recent powerful earthquake in Mindanao, noting that the German community stands in solidarity with those who lost loved ones and livelihoods in the disaster.
The standard diplomatic visit concluded with both heads of state raising a toast to the enduring friendship, shared prosperity, and mutual health of both nations.
