India announced the move in response to the Philippines government's decision to grant visa-free entry to Indian nationals.

The announcement was made during a joint press statement issued by Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The President is currently on a five-day tour to India.

Speaking in the initiative announced by the Indian government, an official statement issued by New Delhi said: "Facilitating greater people-to-people exchanges. In this regard, the two leaders welcomed the grant of visa-free privileges to Indian tourists by the Philippines, and the extension of gratis e-tourist visa for Filipino nationals by India."

After meeting the President, Modi said: "We are elevating the India-Philippines relationship to the level of a Strategic Partnership. This will bring new momentum and depth to our ties and further strengthen our cooperation in the areas of defence and security."

He said: "Over the past few years, our relations have seen progress across all domains including trade, defence, maritime cooperation, healthcare, security, food security, development partnership, and people-to-people ties. It is indeed a matter of great satisfaction that today we are establishing a Plan of Action for the next five years."

Until July 2027, the Philippines is serving as India’s Country Coordinator in ASEAN.

Modi said: " In 2026, you will also assume the Chair of ASEAN. We are confident that under the leadership of the Philippines, India-ASEAN relations will be further strengthened."