Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles highlights the strengthening of defense and economic cooperation between the Philippines and India, marked by President Marcos's visit to India and the signing of multiple agreements [1][2][3] - The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and it is noted that Marcos is the first Philippine president to visit India since 2007 [1] - The Philippines is expected to sign at least six agreements covering various fields, including legal, cultural, scientific, and technological cooperation, with a focus on expanding maritime collaboration [1] Group 2 - The articles discuss the regional security challenges faced by both India and the Philippines, emphasizing their strategic coordination under India's "Act East" policy and the "Maha Sagar Vision" [2] - The defense relationship has notably strengthened, with the Philippines purchasing the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system from India for $375 million in 2022, marking India's first export of this system [2] - Joint naval exercises between the Indian Navy and the Philippine Navy are taking place near the Scarborough Shoal, which are perceived as part of India's efforts to enhance its military presence in Southeast Asia [2] Group 3 - Analysts suggest that the cooperation between India and the Philippines may be viewed as a means to counter China's influence in the South China Sea, with some Indian media framing the joint exercises as a warning to China [2][3] - The Philippines' strategy to involve external powers in the South China Sea is seen as an attempt to elevate its strategic value and attract international attention to its security concerns [3] - The joint exercises are characterized as more of a symbolic gesture rather than yielding substantial outcomes, serving to bolster domestic morale and provide material for media narratives [3]