November 2, 2025 | Gyeongju, South Korea
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. shared details of his brief yet cordial exchange with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the 2025 APEC Summit held in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Saturday, November 1.
Speaking to members of the Philippine media, President Marcos said he made a deliberate effort to approach President Xi despite the latter’s heavy security detail.
“Pinilit kong makapunta sa kanya, and I said congratulations,” Marcos recounted.
“Every time he comes, surrounded by his security, ang hirap lapitan… nakakahiya hindi pa ako bumabati,” he added with a light tone.
President Marcos said he congratulated Xi Jinping as China is set to host the next APEC Summit in 2026. The brief interaction between the two leaders underscored a gesture of mutual respect and diplomacy amid ongoing regional challenges.
The 2025 APEC Summit, held from October 30 to November 1, focused on strengthening economic cooperation, digital transformation, and sustainable growth among member economies.