BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi saw a desi touch as Philippines First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos appeared in traditional Indian attire – salwar-suit and dupatta.Louise, wife of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. aka Bongbong Marcos, is on India visit along with her husband. President Marcos Jr. is attending the BRICS Summit not as a BRICS member, but as ASEAN Chair and outreach guest on PM Narendra Modi’s invitation.
During official events at Rashtrapati Bhavan in presence of President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi, her Indian look became centre of attraction. At Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, she visited Block 1 and 2, explored ‘Anubhuti’ section and took keen interest in life and legacy of former Indian PMs .CEO Dr. Priyanka Mishra and PMS Protocol team welcomed her. The dupatta she wore was gifted by a woman officer at the museum which she accepted with grace.
Louise Araneta-Marcos, lawyer and academician by profession, has been First Lady since 2022. She is known for her work on art, cultural heritage, social welfare and education. She also had a lunch meeting with Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi where India’s vision of women-led development was discussed. The Philippines First Lady also attended the BRICS 2026 Gala Dinner in Delhi.
