Seoul, Republic of Korea — PH Ambassador-designate to the ROK Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez paid a courtesy call on Director General for Southeast Asian Affairs Lee Donggy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea on 13 November 2025. During the call, both officials discussed ongoing efforts to deepen the Philippines-ROK Strategic Partnership, particularly through strengthened dialogue mechanisms, enhanced maritime cooperation, expanded defense logistics and infrastructure collaboration and closer people-to-people linkages. Ambassador-designate Fernandez and Director General Lee acknowledged the growing value of close coordination among defense, maritime, and law enforcement agencies in addressing emerging security challenges and supporting shared regional priorities. 

Both officials reaffirmed their strong commitment to upholding a rules-based international order as the foundation of regional peace and stability. The two sides underscored the importance of sustained adherence to international law and continued cooperation in promoting a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.

The Ambassador-designate and the Director General likewise welcomed progress in official development assistance and economic cooperation, recognizing Korea’s significant role in Philippine infrastructure and development programs. Consular issues and community welfare were also discussed. Director General Lee praised the contributions of Filipinos living and working in the ROK, describing them as “exemplary.” Both sides agreed to continue working closely on consular matters to ensure timely and effective support for Koreans in the Philippines and Filipinos in Korea. 

Looking ahead to 2026, Ambassador-designate Fernandez expressed her commitment to maintaining the momentum of these dialogue mechanisms, aiming to advance the PH-ROK strategic partnership across security, economic, and people-centered priorities.

Both officials emphasized the importance of reactivating and sustaining bilateral dialogue mechanisms to ensure regular communication, effective policy coordination, and smooth implementation of joint initiatives. END