Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos left for Brunei today (May 28) for a two-day state visit to strengthen defence and economic ties. — REUTERS
Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos left for Brunei today (May 28) for a two-day state visit to strengthen defence and economic ties. — REUTERS

MANILA: Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos left for Brunei today (May 28) for a two-day state visit to strengthen defence and economic ties.

According to Xinhua, in his departure speech, Marcos said he and Brunei's Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah will review the progress of bilateral cooperation, explore new mutually-beneficial partnerships and collaboration aimed at achieving prosperity.

"We must now deepen the bonds of friendship between our two countries," said Marcos, adding the Philippines "expects to conclude several agreements ranging from security to tourism and agriculture."

From Brunei, Marcos said he will fly to Singapore to deliver a keynote speech at the International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue on security and defence which kicks off on Friday. — BERNAMA