The Stratbase Institute, with the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in the Philippines, in partnership with the International Center for Promotion of Enterprises (ICPE), the Slovenian Energy and Environment Partnership in Defense (SiENE), and the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia, held a high-level conference as part of the two-day event, “Science2Business: Energy Resilience for Enhanced Security,” at the Manila Polo Club, Makati City.  

The forum brought together key stakeholders from Slovenia and the Philippines to discuss the transfer of science, R&D, and innovation to the private sector, the importance of, and solutions for, the decarbonization and energy efficiency of the defense sector, and the digitalization and use of artificial intelligence in crisis management.  

In his opening remarks, Stratbase Group Chief Operating Officer Mr. RP Manhit highlighted that global energy tensions present both vulnerabilities and opportunities for the Philippines. He emphasized Stratbase’s belief that progress is best achieved through cooperation with like-minded countries such as Slovenia. He also emphasized that the presence of the business delegation from Slovenia is a testament to the growing interest in strengthening cooperation between our countries.  

Meanwhile, Her Excellency Dr. Smiljana Knez, Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to the Philippines, emphasized Slovenia’s strong focus on energy efficiency and sustained government investments in science, research, and innovation. She stressed that Slovenia is ready to deepen cooperation with the Philippines through technology transfer, academic partnerships, and public–private collaboration.  

In his keynote message, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum underscored the Philippines’ push to strengthen energy security and climate resilience through science, innovation, and AI-driven systems, as demonstrated by the Department’s investments in renewable energy, efficiency technologies, and data-driven governance. He also emphasized the importance of international collaboration in translating research into practical solutions.  

Furthermore, the Philippines’ Special Envoy for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, Hon. Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, reiterated that amid converging risks driven by climate change, geopolitical pressures, and disasters, the Philippines must continuously reassess its development and security priorities to ensure resilience anchored on food, energy, and water security. She emphasized the need for integrated, technology-driven solutions and strong collaboration among all relevant stakeholders to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and long-term stability.  

Stratbase remains committed to expanding discussions with like-minded partners such as Slovenia in strengthening national security through critical sectors, including defense, energy, infrastructure, digitalization, and artificial intelligence.