President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has designated Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin to oversee government operations while he embarks on a five-day official visit to India from August 4 to 8.
Bersamin will head a caretaker team that includes Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara and Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III.
President Marcos is set to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, where he will engage in high-level bilateral discussions and business meetings before traveling to Bangalore for further engagements.
The visit, held at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and India. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the two nations are expected to finalize at least six agreements covering areas such as law, culture, and science and technology.
While in India, President Marcos will also meet with members of the Filipino community. This marks the first state visit to India by a Philippine leader since former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s trip in October 2007.