The recent India-Philippines Programme of Cooperation (2025-2028) symbolises an initiative that goes beyond bilateral engagement, aiming towards regional development goals and highlighting the vital role of S&T in shaping resilient, sustainable and inclusive futures. Sneha Sinha writes
India and Philippines have jointly signed a new Programme of Cooperation for 2025-2028 that aims to deepen collaboration in science and technology across eight thematic areas, including geo-spatial technologies and the blue economy. This agreement marks a significant chapter in India-Philippines bilateral relations which has grown steadily over the years, marked by shared aspirations for sustainable development, economic growth and regional stability in Asia. India and Philippines established diplomatic ties shortly after the latter's Independence, through cultural exchanges and trade. However, focused S&T cooperation began to gain momentum in the last two decades with India’s growing global technological footprint. Both countries have increasingly recognised the strategic importance of S&T in national development and regional integration.
The Bilateral Programme of Cooperation (POC) in Science and Technology (2019-2022) focused on cooperation in agricultural biotechnology, health, pharmaceutical and medical sciences, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), material Science & Technology and ocean & atmospheric science. Early cooperation revolved around capacity building, academic exchanges, and technology transfer programmes aimed at leveraging India’s advancements in information technology, pharmaceuticals and renewable energy. More than a thousand Filipino professionals have attended the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation courses on electoral technology, environmental impact assessment, renewable energy, natural resource and public health management. Over the years, several bilateral initiatives have laid the foundation for present engagements.
Indian research institutions and universities have partnered with Philippines' institutions for conducting joint research and student exchange programmes, particularly in agriculture, biotechnology and IT. India’s role in regional groupings such as ASEAN, where the Philippines is a key member, further enhanced opportunities for science diplomacy. Shared challenges including climate vulnerabilities, disaster risks management necessitate innovative technological solutions.
The recently signed Programme of Cooperation for 2025-2028 signals greater commitment to S&T collaboration between the two countries. It encompasses eight thematic areas that aim to address developmental and strategic priorities for both countries. Among these, geo-spatial technologies emerge as a critical tool for environmental monitoring, urban planning, disaster response and natural resource management. These challenges reflect Philippines’ vulnerability to typhoons and flooding and India’s diverse climatic zones. The Programme also emphasises on the blue economy which shows potential for economic growth, employment, and sustainability. As maritime nations with extensive coastlines, India and Philippines share concerns over maritime ecosystem conservation, sustainable fisheries, and offshore energy exploration. Cooperation in the blue economy will help in extending joint marine science research, develop ocean observation technologies, and collaboration on sustainable coastal infrastructure projects. In addition to these focal areas, some other sectors include cooperation in renewable energy, health sciences, ICT, advanced manufacturing, and agricultural innovation. India’s initiatives in solar energy, pharmaceuticals, digital infrastructure, and frugal innovation and Philippines’ in tropical biodiversity and community-based resource management can enrich collaborative efforts.
Enhanced India-Philippines S&T cooperation will further bilateral cooperation and contribute towards regional integration in Asia. Both countries are vulnerable to climate-related risks that demand cutting-edge S&T capabilities. Greater cooperation in geo-spatial monitoring, remote sensing and data analytics will help in predicting, preparing and responding to natural and climate induced hazards. Collaborative innovation in renewable energy systems, agricultural technology and digital infrastructure will also be crucial for both countries’ objectives of economic diversification. S&T cooperation in the blue economy will safeguard both countries’ maritime zones and ensure regional stability. Joint science diplomacy efforts can be amplified through regional forums such as ASEAN, BIMSTEC and IORA, providing a broader platform for knowledge sharing. The recent India-Philippines Programme of Cooperation (2025-2028) symbolises an initiative that goes beyond bilateral engagement, aligning with regional development goals and reflecting the vital role of S&T in shaping resilient, sustainable and inclusive futures. This partnership will strengthen the capacities of both countries in addressing common challenges, and advancing a more collaborative and sustainable Indo-Pacific region.