The Stratbase Institute, in partnership with the Center for Naval Analyses (CNA) convened a virtual roundtable discussion. The event brought together experts from Stratbase Institute and CNA, where they examined how recent U.S. policy and security developments are being interpreted in the Philippines, their implications for Philippine defense planning and alliance confidence, and the future direction of U.S.-Philippines-Japan cooperation.

In his opening remarks, Stratbase Institute President and CEO Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit emphasized that the strength of the Philippines’ alliances and partnerships should be measured not by the warmth of diplomatic rhetoric but by its tangible impact in improving readiness, prevention of conflict, and contribution to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

The discussion also featured insights from Stratbase Institute Non-Resident Fellows Dr. Renato de Castro, Gen. Emmanuel Bautista (Ret.), and RADM Rommel Jude Ong (Ret.); CNA experts Dr. David Finkelstein, Dr. Satu Limaye, and Ms. Tamara Hemphill; and RADM Roy Vincent Trinidad (Ret.), Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Armed Forces of the Philippines.