Lula hails PH’s record-low poverty rate, higher income status

Detailed summary

MANILA – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva recognized Saturday the Philippines’ socioeconomic gains, citing the country’s record-low poverty rate...

ECONOMIC GAINS. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva recognizes the Philippines' record-low poverty rate and improved income status as positive results under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s leadership during a state luncheon at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Saturday (Nov. 14, 2026). Lula said stronger Philippines-Brazil relations would help both countries become more resilient amid global challenges. (Photo courtesy of PCO)

MANILA – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva recognized Saturday the Philippines’ socioeconomic gains, citing the country’s record-low poverty rate and improved income status as “positive results” under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s leadership.

Speaking during a state luncheon hosted by Marcos at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Lula commended the Philippines for its progress despite the global economic challenges.

“These are very positive results in a very challenging international scenario,” he added.

Lula said stronger bilateral ties would help both countries become more resilient amid global uncertainties.

He emphasized the importance of cooperation, trade, investment and commercial relations in building stronger connections between the Philippines and Brazil.

Lula described his state visit as a special occasion, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

He stressed that the two countries could build a stronger partnership based on shared values, common challenges and a vision for sustainable development.

Marcos, meanwhile, described Lula’s visit as a “watershed moment” in Philippine-Brazil relations, saying it had transformed a longstanding friendship into an “active, forward-looking partnership.”

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