Manila, Oct. 31 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung on Friday vowed to further strengthen the Philippines-Korea relationship, reaffirming deep historical ties and a shared commitment to defense, trade and regional security during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting here.

Lee opened the talks with a heartfelt tribute to the Philippines' role in the Korean War, saying Seoul would "never forget" the sacrifices of Filipino soldiers.

"When we were in a national crisis, the Philippines sent its military to aid us," Lee said via translator.

"The people of Korea will never forget the contributions and sacrifices made by the Philippines. Our two countries have main...