H.E. Ramon S. Bagatsing Jr., in his speech, highlighted the significant events that cultivated and strengthened the Philippine-India relations for the last 70 years in terms of bilateral cooperation, support on multilateral platforms and regional and international issues and socio-cultural ties. The Ambassador encouraged both countries to work hand in hand towards closer contact between its peoples and stronger partnership that covers a broad spectrum of cooperation in areas of mutual interests.      

The Chief Guest, in his address, underscored the high importance that India attaches to its relations with the Philippines as a key country in ASEAN region with a large, young, educated population and a fast growing economy making the Philippines as a natural partner of India. India deeply appreciated the commitment and attention accorded by President Rodrigo R. Duterte whose visionary outlook and proactive leadership reinvigorated the Philippine-India ties in recent years.

The reception was attended by the Indian government officials, members of the diplomatic community, Philippine honorary consulate officers in India, members of the Filipino community in New Delhi, representatives from the Philippine companies well as Indian companies doing business in the Philippines and representtaives from the media, travel and tourism sector.

The guests were entertained by the music of the Mulatto band, a Philippine band, which flew all the way to New Delhi just for the event. Filipino and Indian food were also served to the guests.