Japan and the Philippines have striking geopolitical similarities: both are archipelagic nations with export-oriented economies, strategically positioned along the First Island Chain in the Indo-Pacific. Both nations also face a common challenge at sea. Since the issuance of the Arbitral Tribunal’s award regarding the disputes between the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic… Read More

A recent senior study group report published by the United States Institute for Peace (USIP) identifies the growing threat that PRC-origin transnational criminal networks targeting Southeast Asia pose to regional, global and U.S. national security. These criminal actors have established industrial-scale scam compounds, often using forced labor, leading to an annual loss of nearly US$64… Read More

Today, there is growing consensus that the clean energy transition must go hand in hand with energy security and affordability. Given the role of evolving geopolitical dynamics in shaping the energy supply landscape of the Indo-Pacific which impact production, distribution, and market prices, it is crucial for countries like the Philippines to tackle energy transition… Read More

The Stratbase ADR Institute, in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, held a roundtable discussion on the August 15 Unification Doctrine and International Cooperation at the Grand Hyatt Hotel.   The roundtable discussion welcomed a delegation from the Ministry of Unification from the Republic of Korea. Mr. Seunghee Hwang, Director General for Unification… Read More

The Philippine agricultural sector is crucial for providing livelihoods to millions of Filipinos and ensuring food security. It contributes around 9% to the country’s gross domestic product and employs approximately 18% of the workforce, particularly in rural areas.   However, this vital sector faces significant threats from large-scale smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, and other cartel-related activities that… Read More

The annual Pilipinas Conference, organized by the Stratbase Group as it celebrates its 20th year, stands as a vital platform for igniting new ideas and facilitating critical discussions on the pressing issues facing Philippine society. Now in its ninth year, Pilipinas Conference 2024 aims to advance multi-sectoral collaboration to shape policies that address the complex… Read More

Oceans play a critical role in sustaining life on Earth, covering over 70% of the planet’s surface and providing vital resources and ecosystem services. The health of our oceans is essential for maintaining biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, and ensuring food security. Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) emphasizes the need to conserve and sustainably use the… Read More