Korea, Philippines mark 75th anniversary of diplomatic tiesBy Kim Hyun-binFollowing the historic signing of the Philippines-Korea free trade agreement (FTA) last year, the Philippines is actively seeking to establish a strategic partnership with Korea this year that marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Seoul and Manila to enhance collaboration in diverse areas, according to the country’s ambassador to Seoul.
During an interview with The Korea Times, Monday, Philippine Ambassador to Korea Maria Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega envisioned more than just a deeper economic ties, aiming for a multifaceted collaboration that extends into emerging sectors, technological advancements and the overall well-being of both nations.
She highlighted the robust trade relations between the two nations and expressed optimism over the continued growth of the Korea-Philippines economic relationship, emphasizing the anticipated benefits of the recently signed FTA, set to take effect shortly. The agreement, signed in Jakarta on Sept. 7, 2023, during the ASEAN Summit, marks a historic milestone in economic relations.
"Korea, for the Philippines, is a valued trade and investment partner ranking fourth in terms of total bilateral trade volume for the Philippines valued at about $15.45 billion and sixth in terms of approved investments at $90.62 million," she said.
"This FTA is forward-looking, addressing not only traditional components but also recognizing emerging sectors crucial for both our economies."
The FTA with the Philippines is the fifth trade deal Korea signed with ASEAN members after Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia. The five countries together account for 91 percent of the ASEAN market.
Under the agreement, the five-percent tariff on Korean cars will be removed as soon as the FTA takes effect, while the tariff of up to 30 percent placed on car parts will be lifted within five years. Tariffs on electric and hybrid vehicles will also be removed within five years.
Describing the FTA as a "next-generation FTA," the ambassador outlined its distinctive features, including the incorporation of emerging industries such as green technology, creative and knowledge industries and advancements in health sectors, particularly in vaccine development and bioengineering.
"The next-generation FTA signifies a commitment to fostering a strong and mutually beneficial partnership in the years to come," she said.
Beyond trade and investment, Dizon-De Vega shed light on the economic cooperation component of the FTA, designed to foster collaboration beyond the business realm, including opportunities for research and development (R&D) in specific fields. Such initiatives are expected to benefit manufacturing sectors and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Ongoing efforts were also highlighted, with collaboration between the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry and Korean counterparts in developing an origin system for tracking new investments under the FTA. This initiative aims to document the benefits and promote the growth of the private sector.
Cultural exchanges, tourismHighlighting people-to-people relations, Dizon-De Vega emphasized their strength rooted in shared sacrifices during the Korean War.
"We brought in the 4th largest contingent of fighting troops to help preserve democracy in this part of the world," the ambassador said.
She pointed out the significant role of Filipinos and Koreans residing in each other's countries, contributing to cultural exchanges and forming the bedrock of relations.
"Over the years, we've witnessed a constant flow of people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and Korea," Dizon-De Vega said. “Currently, approximately 67,000 Filipinos reside in Korea, while over 80,000 Koreans have found a second home in the Philippines.”
The ambassador affectionately refers to them as the "real ambassadors," emphasizing their role in staying in touch with both societies, forming a solid foundation for bilateral relations.
Formal introductions to each other's cultures are facilitated by a cultural agreement signed in 1973, marking its 50th anniversary this year.
"It's still in place and serves as the basis for many decades of various cultural exchanges," she said.
The ambassador underscored the vital role of tourism in growing people-to-people relations. Korea has become a favorite destination for many Filipinos, driven by the popularity of Korean content, including K-pop, the Korean Wave, K-products, K-beauty, K-food, K-drama and films. Korea remains the number one source of international visitors to the Philippines, symbolizing the strong cultural ties.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the ambassador noted that Korea has regained its spot as the number one tourism market for the Philippines. She also emphasized the warm welcome extended to Koreans in the Philippines.
"There's this feeling that they're part of the Philippine family," she said.
75th-anniversary of bilateral tiesShe also discussed the upcoming 75th-anniversary celebrations of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Korea, set to commence in March 2024.
"As the 75th anniversary of relations approaches, we start commemorating in March, so it'll be a year-long commemoration from March of 2024 to March of 2025," the ambassador said.
She articulated the commemorative vision, emphasizing a forward-looking thematic approach.
"The thematic for the commemoration is not just to pay homage or to recognize the history but also looking forward," she said. The celebration aims to encompass both the shared history and sacrifices of the two nations, as well as the future strategic relations that both countries hope to establish.
Addressing major events planned for the commemoration, Dizon-De Vega mentioned a launching event in early March, designed to inform partners, friends, and the media about major activities.
She detailed a range of initiatives, including "book projects, sports diplomacy programs, artistic exchanges, and cultural events." The Philippine Embassy in Seoul collaborates with institutions like the Korea Foundation, ASEAN Culture House, universities, think tanks, business groups, and defense and security partners.
Characterizing the current state of diplomatic relations, Dizon-De Vega asserted, "I always say that the relationship between the Philippines and Korea is really issue-free. We don't really have any outstanding major irritants or issues in our relationship."
Regarding challenges, the ambassador stressed the importance of "working very, very closely together" to identify priorities and areas of cooperation. Ongoing