House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez expressed optimism about strengthening the ties between the Philippines and Hungary after hosting a delegation of Hungarian parliamentarians led by Zsolt Németh, the chair of Hungary’s National Assembly Foreign Affairs Committee, on January 15, 2025. The meeting, held at the Speaker’s office, focused on deepening political and interparliamentary connections between the two nations.
Romualdez highlighted the significance of the visit, which he said underscores the robust diplomatic relations and mutual respect shared by the Philippines and Hungary. He recalled the visit of Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó in June 2023 as a testament to the ongoing high-level exchanges between the countries.
The discussions covered a range of topics aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation, including the establishment of the Philippines-Hungary Parliamentarians’ Friendship Group post the May 2025 midterm elections. Romualdez praised the efforts of Hungarian Deputy Speaker Istvan Jakab and former Philippine Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri in fostering these relations through their respective visits.
Economic ties were also a focal point, with Romualdez noting Hungary’s position as the 14th largest trading partner among EU member states for the Philippines in 2023. He expressed hope for increased trade, particularly in sectors like electronics, machinery, optical products, and medical instruments. The recent business forum during the 6th Meeting of the Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation in December 2023 was cited as evidence of growing economic collaboration.
Romualdez also acknowledged Hungary’s support for the Philippines-EU Free Trade Agreement (PH-EU FTA) negotiations, with Németh expressing confidence that the agreement could be finalized in the current year. Additionally, Romualdez thanked Hungary for its assistance in opening the Migrant Workers Office in Budapest, recognizing the contributions of the approximately 11,600 Filipinos living and working in Hungary.
Németh proposed joint training exercises to further labor cooperation, praising the work ethic of Filipino workers. Romualdez also expressed gratitude for Hungary’s support of the Philippines’ bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term.
As the Philippines prepares to take on the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, Romualdez outlined goals to promote inclusive growth, enhance food security, and pursue maritime cooperation. He welcomed Hungary’s interest in acceding to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, emphasizing the importance of regional partnerships.