Seoul, South Korea – Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s attendance at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2025 Economic Leaders Meeting in Seoul was marked by a striking contrast: a diplomatic snub from China, immediately followed by a robust reaffirmation of the strategic partnership with South Korea. The events highlight the geopolitical tensions shaping Asia-Pacific economics and diplomacy, particularly concerning the West Philippine Sea.

🇨🇳 China’s Refusal: A Diplomatic Disappointment

President Marcos Jr. expressed his disappointment with the behavior of certain Chinese economic leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, after the latter declined the Philippines’ request for a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the APEC summit.

While Malacañang did not provide specific reasons for China’s refusal, it is widely speculated that the rejection is a direct consequence of the ongoing, escalating tensions between the two nations in the South China Sea (known in the Philippines as the West Philippine Sea). The Philippines remains one of the frontline nations continually challenging China’s aggressive claims and incursions into its exclusive economic zones.

The proposed bilateral talks were intended to cover several critical topics, including:

Marcos’s Invitation: Discussions surrounding a potential visit by President Xi Jinping to the Philippines next year.
Trade and Economic Matters: Exploring avenues for business and trade negotiations.
The West Philippine Sea Dispute: Most importantly, addressing the contentious territorial and maritime conflicts in the contested waters.

The Palace has indicated that it will release further details regarding this issue and the overall proceedings of the APEC Summit in Seoul in the coming days.

🇰🇷 Renewed Vows: Strengthening the Philippines-South Korea Strategic Partnership

In stark contrast to the Chinese snub, President Marcos Jr. successfully held a bilateral meeting with Republic of Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol, where the two leaders reinforced the enduring and robust relationship between Manila and Seoul.

During his opening remarks, President Yoon Suk Yeol warmly recalled the historical solidarity between the two nations, specifically mentioning the Philippines’ crucial contribution during the Korean War.

“The Republic of Korea and the Philippines are very special friends,” President Yoon said. “When we were in national crisis, the Philippines sent its military to aid us. The people of Korea will never forget the contributions and dedication and sacrifices made by the Philippines. Our two countries have maintained a very close relationship of cooperation and support, and we have mutually helped each other out over the years. But I hope that through your visit, we will be able to take that to another level and have much closer cooperation.”

In response, President Marcos Jr. congratulated President Yoon on the successful hosting of APEC 2025 and reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to fortifying its strategic partnership with South Korea. He highlighted the deep cultural and bilateral ties between Filipinos and Koreans, noting cooperation in areas such as defense, security, and humanitarian assistance.

Marcos also underscored ongoing milestones, including the bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and forthcoming regional cooperation efforts under the Philippines’ chairmanship of ASEAN next year.

To conclude the productive meeting, President Marcos extended an invitation for the South Korean leader to visit the Philippines. President Yoon readily accepted the invitation, expressing his own eagerness to visit a country he regards as one of South Korea’s closest friends in Asia.

💼 A Call to Invest: Pitching the Philippines to Global CEOs

Earlier in the day, President Marcos Jr. delivered a special address at the APEC Economic Leaders Meeting CEO Summit on the afternoon of October 31, where he made a strong case for investing in the Philippines.

Addressing a room filled with Asia-Pacific business magnates, the President emphatically declared that the Philippines is “open, ready, and eager for business.” He actively encouraged CEOs to invest in the nation’s rapidly transforming, digital, and innovation-driven economy.

Marcos asserted that the Philippines is now strategically positioned to become a hub of inclusive growth and technological progress in the region. He emphasized that his administration’s sweeping reform agenda—encompassing significant enhancements to investment incentives, streamlining the ease of doing business, and upskilling the workforce—has been meticulously designed to make the country more globally competitive and interconnected.

The President’s address served as a powerful signal that despite geopolitical friction, the Philippines is prioritizing economic development and international cooperation to secure a stable and prosperous future.