India and the Philippines are set to enhance bilateral connectivity with the launch of direct flights between Delhi and Manila starting October 1, 2025. The announcement came during a special briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) that coincided with the state visit of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

The new air link is expected to significantly boost tourism, business, and people-to-people exchange between the two countries. The MEA also indicated that both nations are exploring options to expand air connectivity to additional cities in the future.

"Direct Air India flight connectivity from Delhi to Manila will be operational from the 1st of October. Further discussions are underway on expanding destinations to strengthen our air link," the MEA spokesperson stated.

In a landmark move to encourage tourism, President Marcos announced visa-free entry for Indian nationals visiting the Philippines. Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded in kind, confirming that India would also extend free e-visas to tourists from the Philippines.

“I reiterated our introduction of visa-free entry privileges and extended our invitation for more Indian tourists to visit the Philippines,” President Marcos said in a joint press statement. “We welcome the resumption of direct flights from October and renew our commitment to expanding such connectivity.”

Prime Minister Modi emphasized the mutual nature of the agreement: “India has also decided to allow free e-visas for tourists from the Philippines. This year, work will be done to strengthen direct flight operations between our two countries.”

President Marcos is on a five-day official visit to India from August 4 to 8, aimed at deepening strategic, economic, and cultural ties. He is also scheduled to meet with President Droupadi Murmu later today.