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In a bid to fortify the enduring friendship between Indonesia and the Philippines, President Joko Widodo touched down in Manila on Tuesday evening for a three-day official visit. The visit aims to deepen bilateral relations and enhance collaboration across various sectors.

The presidential plane carrying President Widodo landed at the Maharlika Presidential Hangar, Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, around 8:05 pm. He was greeted by high-ranking Philippine government officials, including Secretary Carlito Galvez, Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia Gina A. Jamoralin, Undersecretary Reichel P. Quiñones, and Pasay City Mayor Imelda G. Calixto-Rubiano.

Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia, H.E Agus Widjojo, and Madame Ranny Moerni Cahyani, along with Defense Attaché Col. Bambang Wijonarko and Fransisca Donna Carmelita, were also present to welcome President Widodo.

The highlight of President Widodo's visit is his scheduled meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday at the Malacañan Palace. The leaders will engage in discussions aimed at advancing the progress of Philippine-Indonesia relations.

This visit comes on the heels of President Marcos' trip to Indonesia in September of the previous year. Both nations, as founding members of ASEAN, share a rich history of collaboration in political, economic, and people-to-people relations.

As the Philippines and Indonesia gear up to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their formal diplomatic relations in November, President Widodo's visit holds particular significance. The leaders are expected to explore opportunities for further cooperation this year.

President Joko Widodo is set to stay in the Philippines until January 11, 2024.