Exploring National Security and Economic Resilience at the 6th Katipunan Conference: Philippine Strategic Outlook 2024 Onwards

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The 6th Katipunan Conference, themed "Philippine Strategic Outlook 2024 Onwards: National Security and Economic Resilience," brings a unique opportunity to analyze and discuss the Philippines' pressing strategic issues. Taking place on November 5, 2024, at The Loft, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University, this one-day event promises to gather thought leaders, policy experts, academics, and government representatives. With space for 150 participants on a first-come, first-served basis, the conference encourages early registration to ensure a spot at this pivotal forum.

Organized by the Strategic Studies Program of the University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UP CIDS), Ateneo School of Government, and Miriam College, the conference aims to provide evidence-based discussions on how the country can balance national defense with economic sustainability.

Keynote speakers include Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go.

The morning plenary will feature discussions on internal security, intelligence, and the country’s strategy in the West Philippine Sea.

Conference Schedule and Sessions

The conference is structured to maximize engagement and facilitate in-depth discussions on a range of strategic topics. It will be divided into two major parts:

Morning Plenary Session (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): 

This session sets the stage with an overview of the conference’s themes, unpacking both national security and economic resilience in the Philippine context. Registration for the morning plenary begins at 8:30 AM, and attendees can expect keynote addresses and discussions from prominent leaders and experts.


Afternoon Panel Sessions (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): 

Following a break for lunch, the conference will resume with specialized panels. Afternoon registration opens at 12:30 PM, accommodating attendees who may only be available for the afternoon sessions. During this time, attendees can choose from multiple parallel panel discussions covering specific themes.

Afternoon Panel Selections: A Deep Dive into Key Issues

To address the complexities of the Philippine strategic landscape, the afternoon sessions will feature seven focused panels, enabling participants to engage in more tailored discussions based on their areas of interest:

Panel 1: Intelligence Frontiers: 

Shaping Philippine Strategy in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape
As regional dynamics continue to shift, this panel explores how intelligence can guide policy and bolster strategic positioning amid growing uncertainties.


Panel 2: Forging Resilient Economic Futures: 

Philippine-China Relations in Focus
Economic ties between the Philippines and China are both opportunities and challenges. This panel will delve into ways to navigate the complexities of this relationship, particularly with a focus on economic resilience and self-reliance.



Panel 3: Internal Security and Governance in the Philippines: 

Civil, Economic, and Human Dimensions
Examining how governance and security intersect, this panel will consider internal challenges such as civil strife, economic inequality, and human rights.


Panel 4: Examining Foreign Interference: 

Global Forces and Local Impacts in the Philippines

As the Philippines becomes increasingly intertwined with global networks, this panel assesses the impact of foreign interference on domestic affairs and examines strategies to safeguard sovereignty.


Panel 5: Strategic Imperatives: 

Shaping Philippine National Security in a Shifting Geopolitical Landscape
This panel investigates how the Philippines can recalibrate its national security policies to respond effectively to regional and global shifts.


Panel 6: Cybersecurity, Innovation, and Sustainability: 

Strategic Technologies for the Philippines

Addressing the digital frontier, this panel will cover the integration of cybersecurity, technological innovation, and sustainability as pillars for a future-ready Philippines.


Panel 7: Maritime Defense and Diplomacy: 

Building Strategic Resilience in the West Philippine Sea

The West Philippine Sea remains a critical area for Philippine defense and diplomacy. This panel will explore strategies to reinforce maritime sovereignty and resilience in the region.
Participant Information and Requirements

The organizers emphasize the importance of attendance and active participation. Attendees will receive certificates of participation provided they attend the morning plenary session and at least one afternoon panel session. Additionally, they must complete an evaluation and feedback form at the end of the conference. Certificates are intended to recognize the valuable insights and contributions of each participant, acknowledging their role in shaping discussions around the country's future.

Networking and Engagement

The 6th Katipunan Conference isn’t only a platform for information-sharing—it’s an invaluable opportunity for networking. Academics, government officials, policymakers, and civil society leaders will come together, creating a space where collaborative ideas can emerge. For attendees, it represents a chance to forge professional connections and share insights with some of the Philippines' most influential minds.

Practical Details

Venue: The Loft, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University
Date and Time: November 5, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Lunch and Refreshments: Registered participants will be provided with lunch, and both morning and afternoon attendees will enjoy snacks and free-flowing coffee.
Closing Remarks: A Forward-Looking Vision

The 6th Katipunan Conference will undoubtedly foster a forward-looking vision for the Philippines. Through the collective insights and collaborative efforts of all participants, the conference aims to lay a foundation for policies and strategies that can address the challenges of 2024 and beyond.

Sheraton Manila Bay Hosts “Art In Gathering 2024” A Gala Dinner and Art Auction for a Cause

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Sheraton Manila Bay, known as The World’s Gathering Place in the Heart of Manila, proudly announces the “Art In Gathering 2024 - A Thanksgiving Gala Dinner and Art Auction to be held on November 21, 2024, at 7:00 PM. This prestigious event aims to celebrate Filipino artistry while raising funds for two meaningful causes: San Lorenzo Home for the Elderly and Marriott Philppines Associates Welfare and Recovery Fund or MPAWER. The event is priced at Php 2,400 net per person in which proceeds will go to our chosen beneficiaries.

As part of the NextGen Marriott Business Council, “Art In Gathering 2024” will showcase over 40+ stunning artworks from renowned local artists in partnership with Imahica Art Gallery and Independent Artist, Lucci Canlas. It promises to be an evening of cultural appreciation, community togetherness, and culinary excellence, offering a memorable experience for corporate and hotel guests, clients, and partners alike.

The event’s highlights include an exclusive raffle, where attendees will have the chance to win exciting prizes, including a two-night stay at Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, Four Points by Sheraton Puerto Prinsesa, and more! The evening will be further enriched by gastronomic creations prepared by Sheraton Manila Bay’s acclaimed culinary team, adding a flavor of elegance to the visual feast of art. Some of the artworks that will be on display and available for bidding are the following:

Transition Series 01 & 02 by Dennis Morante

L-F A Flow of Abundance 3 & The Catch 5 by Lucci Canlas

L-F Fresh Apples & Fresh Apple and Grapes Splash by Melanie Frias

Sheraton Manila Bay extends its gratitude to its partners and sponsors, whose contributions ensure the success of this fundraising gala. In addition to a night of artistic and culinary wonder. For reservations, call +632 5318 0788 or email sh.mnlsb.fnb@sheraton.com

Event Details:

November 21, 2024, Thursday, 6:30 pm onwards

Venue: Grand Ballroom, Sheraton Manila Bay

M. Adriatico, corner Gen. Malvar St, Malate, Manila

Price: Php 2,400 net per person

Sheraton Manila Bay is a renowned hotel located at M. Adriatico corner Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, and state-of-the art facilities. With its commitment to providing exceptional service and creating unforgettable moments, Sheraton Manila Bay is the perfect destination for both leisure and business travelers. To reserve or book your room accommodations go to www.sheratonmanilabay.com. Sheraton Manila Bay is conveniently located at M. Adriatico corner Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. Like us on Facebook and Instagram @sheratonmanilabay and follow us on Twitter at@sheratonmnlbay

Think-tank: Typhoon-related coal barge disasters expose incompatibility of fossil fuels to PH

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



The Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED) on Monday called on the Philippine government to hasten the country’s transition away from fossil fuels and to strengthen measures to protect marine and coastal environments from pollution.


The call was made after the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm (STS) Kristine triggered two coal spills in Sorsogon and Zambales.


“After hundreds of thousands of liters of oil spilled in the Verde Island Passage last year and in Manila Bay earlier this year, we’re now seeing these disastrous coal barge accidents. All of them came about from severe weather events. They are a terrible yet stark reminder that fossil fuel projects are dirty, deadly, and costly in more ways than one - triggering worse climate disasters and directly polluting the environments and communities that host them,” said Gerry Arances, Executive Director of CEED.


The coal barge that overturned in Sorsogon during the onslaught of STS Kristine has reportedly resulted in significant environmental damage, including fish kills and the destruction of marine ecosystems and livelihoods. A coastal community in Brgy. Bucalbucalan in Sorsogon City raised alarm over the darkening of the coast due to the alleged soaking of the barge’s coal.


Meanwhile, local fisherfolks of Zambales feared that marine life and their livelihoods were endangered because of the grounded barge case also by STS Kristine. Carrying 11,000 metric tons of coal, the barge poses serious threats to the Masinloc-Oyon Bay Protected Seascape and Landscape, Central Luzon’s first marine protected area and regarded as one of the country’s most important locations for marine biodiversity.


“Coal and other fossil fuels are not only a major contributor to climate change, they also pose significant threats to our communities and environment. As the climate crisis worsens, a repeat of these tragic incidents will always be possible for the climate-vulnerable Philippines. It’s high time for the government to rethink its expansion plans for coal and all other fossil fuels and prioritize a swift and just transition to renewable energy instead,” said Arances.

“At the same time, the government must prioritize the implementation of more stringent protection for the ecosystems that sustain many Filipinos, yet continue to be threatened by fossil fuels and other risks. Increasing restrictions against toxic pollution and ensuring that fisherfolk and coastal communities are empowered to be at the forefront of managing and protecting their marine and coastal environments should be the way forward,” he added.