The Stratbase ADR Institute, in partnership with the Embassy of Australia in the Philippines, recently held a conference on the nexus of maritime and economic security. The growing geopolitical and geoeconomic importance of the Indo-Pacific has prompted like-minded states to recalibrate their strategies to become more active player in the region. This renewed interest is crucial as the region is confronted with asymmetric security challenges.  

One of the countries that emerged as a strategic player is the Philippines. Its primary interests lie in the West Philippine Sea which serves as a vital waterway for the country’s maritime security and economic security. Initiatives towards implementing measures to achieve the goal of national security and economic security are hampered by the increasing intensity and regularity of aggressive behavior in the area. While these present risks disrupt the maximization of potential benefits, it also serves as an impetus to enhance collaboration with like-minded partners.  

Leveraging relationships with allies, friends, and partners offer a framework for enhanced cooperation in enhancing maritime security and developing the blue economy in the West Philippine Sea. This cooperative approach not only strengthens regional security but also bridges the gap between security and geo economic interests, underscoring the Philippines’ commitment to a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. 

In line with this, the Stratbase ADR Institute, in partnership with the Embassy of Australia in the Philippines, organized a hybrid townhall discussion entitled, “Forging Bonds: Exploring the Nexus Between Maritime Security and Economic Security” on June 6, 2024 (Thursday), from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM (PHT) at the AIM Conference Center, Asian Institute of Management, Makati City. 

This event gathered key stakeholders in the government, diplomatic community, academe, and media which discussed collaborative ways to ensure maritime security and its potential to boost the development of a sustainable blue economy in the West Philippine Sea.