President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has expressed interest in exploring “new ways” to strengthen bilateral relations between the Philippines and Panama.

Marcos made the pronouncement as he welcomed Panamanian Ambassador-designate Eduardo Antonio Young Virzi to the country.

Virzi presented his credentials to Marcos in Malacañang on Wednesday.

Presenting credentials to the host nation’s head of state formalizes a diplomat’s tour of duty and representation to the country.

“The President highlighted the Philippines and Panama’s shared role as vital trade and maritime hubs and expressed interest in exploring new ways to strengthen bilateral relations for the benefit of both nations,” the Presidential Communications Office said in a social media post on Thursday.

The Philippines and Panama celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2023. The two nations’ ties were formally established on Sept. 28, 1973. (PNA)