2024 Philippines Update: Beyond Geo-Politics: The Philippines in the New Marcos Era

The 2024 Philippines Update Conference (Oct 30-31) offered a thought-provoking exploration of the Philippines in the Marcos administration, with a focus on critical domestic and foreign policy shifts. Against the backdrop of strengthened ties between Australia and the Philippines, experts analyzed the implications of renewed Western alliances, territorial assertiveness, and evolving economic priorities, particularly in infrastructure and green energy.

With key themes including community resilience, oligarchic politics, and climate adaptation, the conference highlighted the complexities and challenges faced by the Philippines today. This gathering brought together leading voices to provide invaluable insights into the political, economic, and social transformations shaping the Philippines in a pivotal era. Highlights included a powerful keynote by esteemed journalist Marites D. Vitug on her book, "Unrequited Love: Duterte’s China Embrace."

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all speakers, chairs, discussants, and attendees—especially those who traveled from afar—to contribute to these crucial conversations. Your expertise and engagement added immense value, deepening our understanding of the political, economic, and social shifts shaping the Philippines today.