President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday welcomed Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay during a courtesy call at Malacañang Palace, marking the first time a Bhutanese leader has been hosted at the Palace.
Marcos highlighted the importance of organizing representation for non-resident ambassadors to further strengthen ties between the Philippines and Bhutan.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate on skills training and workforce development through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
The President emphasized that post-pandemic partnerships should expand beyond tourism and cultural exchange to include stronger people-to-people ties, as well as increased trade and investment opportunities.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries were formally established on October 6, 2025. Philippine exports to Bhutan include electronic products, machinery, transport equipment, woodcrafts, and furniture, while top imports are wine, fresh grapes, and virgin olive oil.
As of November 2025, 335 Bhutanese tourists had visited the Philippines.
Tobgay’s courtesy call also coincided with his attendance at the Asia Pacific Food Systems Forum 2026 hosted by the Asian Development Bank.