The Vietnamese leader and a high-level delegation will visit the Philippines following his official visit to the Thailand from May 27 to 29 and a State visit to Singapore, where he is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue from May 29 to 31.

This will be the leader’s first State visit to the Philippines since assuming his new position. The visit also coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the Philippines. From their early foundations of cooperation, the two countries gradually elevated ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2015.

Economic and trade cooperation has continued to emerge as one of the most important pillars of bilateral relations. Two-way trade has steadily expanded, with both sides aiming to reach US$10 billion in bilateral trade turnover. Vietnam has played a key role in ensuring a stable rice supply for the Philippines, contributing directly to the country’s food security.

Alongside trade, bilateral investment cooperation has also recorded new progress, reflected in the growing presence of businesses from both countries in each other’s markets, particularly in aviation, manufacturing, information technology, energy, and services.

According to Vietnamese Ambassador to the Philippines Lai Thai Binh, Vietnam invested more than US$90 million in the Philippines in 2025. Meanwhile, the Philippines invested more than US$200 million in Vietnam during the same period.

The expansion of direct flight routes has made travel, study, work, and tourism between the two countries more convenient, contributing to a rapid increase in two-way visitor exchanges.

Cultural exchange activities, including the growing popularity of Vietnamese cuisine and cultural products in the Philippines, have also strengthened mutual understanding and people-to-people ties, creating a solid social foundation for bilateral relations.

With political trust continuing to deepen, economic and trade cooperation becoming increasingly substantive, and people-to-people exchanges growing more vibrant, Party General Secretary and President To Lam’s upcoming visit is expected to help elevate Vietnam-Philippines relations to new heights.

“Colours of Vietnam” marks 50 years of Vietnam–Philippines ties

VOV.VN - A cultural event titled “Colours of Vietnam” is taking place in Manila, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Philippines (1976–2026), while promoting Vietnam’s culture, arts, and tourism.