Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo Jr. paid tribute to the 7,420 members of the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea (PEFTOK) during his visit to the Joint Security Area in South Korea on August 9, recognizing their bravery during the Korean War.

“Their courage remains the foundation of our long-standing relations, now spanning 75 years,” Manalo said, stressing the enduring bond between the Philippines and South Korea.

Concluding a three-day official visit, Manalo reiterated the Philippines' commitment to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

He condemned North Korea's recent intercontinental ballistic missile tests, calling them violations of United Nations Security Council sanctions and provocations that are increasing regional tensions.