Stratbase Group Founder and CEO Prof. Dindo Manhit was invited to speak on “The Defense Imperative: Modernization, Alliances, and Securing the Maritime Domain” by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines at the Makati Diamond Residences, Makati City.  

During his talk, he spoke of the complex geopolitical architecture the world is currently facing amidst geopolitical tensions. The recent Middle East conflict shows the importance of critical maritime chokepoints, as shown through the Strait of Hormuz. This underscores the importance to also protect the Philippines’ seas which serves as vital trade routes and holds critical digital infrastructure.  

There is a need for advanced technologies and strategic partnerships to counter external aggression, particularly in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines’ alliances with like-minded nations are vital components of a collective security architecture in the Indo-Pacific region. 

The conference was also joined by Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro who spoke of the strong partnership between the U.S. and the Philippines. He also encouraged more participation and investments from the private sector to support the defense industry in the Philippines. 

Prof. Manhit spoke in a panel with VADM Allen J. Dalangin (Commander, Maritime Security Law Enforcement Command, Philippine Coast Guard), RADM Roy Vincent Trinidad (AFP Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea and Naval Inspector General, Philippine Navy), and Mr. Don McLain Gill (Non-Resident Fellow, Stratbase Institute; Lecturer, De La Salle University (DLSU)). The panel was moderated by Dr. Stephen Cutler (Chairman, Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC)).