Hosting a complex security environment coupled with its geopolitical importance, the Indo-Pacific has become a priority for various states. This is exemplified in the publication of their respective Indo-Pacific strategies as part of their foreign policy, which outlines their concerns in managing the security threats in the region. Moreover, these policies illustrate the recognition of states’ collective responsibility in maintaining a peaceful, prosperous, and stable region through fostering multilateral cooperation with like-minded states. At the same time, these strategies shape the region’s security architecture and are crucial in maintaining a rules-based international order through strengthening alliances and strategic partnerships.

In the Philippines, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr’s in-person meetings and foreign travels signify his administration’s commitment to maximizing the country’s existing partnerships and expanding its diplomatic networks. As security challenges in the region intensify, there is a need for the Philippines to cooperate with like-minded nations such as the United States, Australia, Japan, and India to navigate the Indo-Pacific’s complex security architecture strategically.

As the majority president with over 31 million votes, President Marcos Jr. is expected to implement strategies that prioritize and adhere to the interests of his constituents.  This includes building a more responsive and strategic foreign and security policy for the Philippines based on the national interest as its main driver and primordial guide.  

In line with this, Stratbase ADR Institute, together with the US Embassy in the Philippines, hosted a hybrid town hall discussion entitled, “Prioritizing the National Interest in Philippine Foreign Policy:  Strengthening Alliances and Strategic Partnerships in the Indo-Pacific” on 5 January 2023, Thursday, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (Manila Time) at the Rizal Room of the Manila House Private Club, 8/F Seven/NEO Building (formerly Net Park), 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City and live-streamed via Zoom.

Through this event, the Institute sought to provide a platform for experts and scholars to share their assessments and recommendations on the various Indo-Pacific strategies and the Philippines’ independent foreign policy under the Marcos Jr. administration.

Program

Formulating a Responsive and Strategic Foreign Policy for the Philippines
Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit
President, Stratbase ADR Institute

Pursuing the National Interest in Foreign Policy: Presentation of 4th Quarter Survey Results
Dr. Ronald Holmes
President, Pulse Asia Research, Inc.;
Full Professor, Department of Political Science and Development Studies, De La Salle University – Manila

Philippine Foreign Policy: Cooperation with Like-Minded States in the Indo-Pacific
Dr. Renato de Castro 
Trustee and Program Convenor, Stratbase ADR Institute; 
Professor, De La Salle University – Manila 

The Power of Data in Securing Philippine Waters
Col. Raymond Powell, U.S. Air Force (Ret.)
Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation (Project Myoushu), Stanford University, California, USA

Leveraging the Indo-Pacific Strategies for a Stable Region
Dr. Chester Cabalza
President and Founder, International Development and Security Cooperation

Host & Moderator
Ms. Mary Joyce Ilas
Communication and Advocacy Lead, Stratbase ADR Institute