The same DFA document revealed that the two countries are in the process of forging pacts on two important security measures involving transnational crimes and cross-border terrorism.

Moreover, Manila and Moscow are likewise taking time to discuss other matters relating to the entry of both country’s officials on each other’s territory. "The Philippines and Russia are progressing in talks to ease entry procedures for officials," the DFA said.

DFA also confirmed that Manila and Moscow are concluding talks "to sign an intercity cooperative agreement, while Cebu and St. Petersburg have progressed to scheduling exploratory talks later this year to push a similar relationship."

The foreign affairs office said that as a tourism cooperation agreement and a cultural cooperation protocol have already been signed separately, the two countries would also be working on another agreement in the energy and education sectors.

DFA Secretary Alberto Romulo, in a statement, said that the Philippines, which will chair the 10-member Association of South East Asian Nations this year, is expected to improve the relations between ASEAN and Russia.

The Philippines also hopes that the standing invitation for Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit the country will be accepted by the Russia leader making him the first Russian ruler to ever visit the country.

The highest ranking official to visit the Philippines was the brother of Tsar Nicholas II, Grand Duke Alexis, in 1894.