President Marcos has expressed optimism about strengthening the country's relationship with the Czech Republic beyond their existing defense ties.

Marcos said this as he met with Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová in Malacañan on Thursday, Feb. 20.

In his remarks, the President highlighted the potential for expanded cooperation between the countries in various sectors.

"I am very optimistic for the future in terms of our relationship with each other," he said.

"I think that really there is much that we can do together, and there are many areas that we still need to explore," he added.

Marcos particularly cited economic, diplomatic, and people-to-people engagements as areas where both nations can work together.

"In all things, on the people-to-people side, on the economic side, the defense and security, the diplomatic and the problem with the government," he said.

"Beyond that are also the agreements between the countries, which gives us the promise of a much stronger and a much deeper relationship with the Czech Republic and the Philippines," he added.

The President recalled his visit to Prague in March last year, where he met with Czech President Petr Pavel and other government officials. He noted that discussions went beyond their planned agenda, touching on broader aspects of bilateral cooperation.

"I remember very well that we had our talks that we had really extended beyond what we meant… what our ministries had said as the subject matter and extended far beyond that," he said.

"The discussions that we had in Prague did not end in Prague. They continue to go on between our two countries," he added.

President Marcos expressed his gratitude for Minister Černochová's visit, describing their talks as a continuation of the productive discussions in Prague.

"We thank you very much for taking the time to visit us, especially after what was the very productive visit that we had in Prague," he said.

In response, the Czech official said she enjoyed her short stay in the Philippines.

"I am very much impressed with the country. Not only through this special visit, but I am also very impressed by all the very nice, kind, and hard-working people who are deeply appreciated in the country," she said.

The Czech Republic has been a source of military equipment for the Philippines, with previous discussions covering possible defense agreements.

During Marcos' visit to Prague in March 2024, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala expressed readiness to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) by supplying advanced defense technologies.

According to Marcos, the Czech Republic’s participation in the AFP’s modernization program will enhance its capacity and capability and serve as an important part of strengthening the relations between the two countries.

Before President Marcos’ State Visit to the Czech Republic, several Czech defense companies offered their products as potential solutions to requirements under the Revised AFP Modernization Program.

Moreover, Czech defense firms have participated in exhibitions in Manila, showcasing advanced military hardware and expressing interest in supplying the Philippines with modern equipment.