DR. AARON JED RABENA
Assistant Professor, University of the Philippines Asian Center
AGNES SILVA
Director, Far Eastern University
ALIAH ADAM
Director, The Respair Foundation
ALTAMIRA REYES
Chief Defense Analyst, Strategic Studies & Strategy Management Office, Philippine Navy
PROF. ALIZA RACELIS
Professor, University of the Philippines Virata School of Business,
ANDREW MANTONG
Senior Researcher, Department of International Relations, CSIS Indonesia
ANDREW MARRIOTT
Managing Director, Apac Expo, UK
ATOKA JO
Director, Japan Nexus Intelligence
PROF. BANYU PERWITA
Professor of International Relations, Indonesia Defense University
DR. BENJAMIN BLANDIN
Expert in Maritime Security, YCAPS
BLAKE HERZINGER
Asia Defense and National Security Policy Lead, Microsoft
DR. BRIAN U. DOCE
Public Policy and Research Manager, Uniersalis
BYRON BICENIO
Supervising Legislative Staff Officer III, Philippine House of Representatives
CARICE WITTE
Executive Director, SIGNAL Group
ATTY. CECILIA JIMENEZ-DAMARY
Senior Professional Lecturer, De La Salle University
DR CHESTER CABALZA
Founding President, International Development and Security Cooperationphili
DR. CHIEW PING HOO
Co-Founder and Senior Fellow, East Asian International Relations Caucus
CHLOE MAE DE GUZMAN
Deputy Executive Secretary, Philippine International Law of the Sea Academy Inc.
CLARISSE E. RUTOR-GARCIO
Director, Planning and Knowledge Management Services, National Security Council
DR. COLLIN KOH
Senior fellow, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies
DR. CRISTINA DE ESPERANZA PICARDO
Research Assistant, Elcano Royal Institute
DERECK JUDE LORENZO
Scholar, Department of Asian Studies, University of Santo Tomas
DESMOND OH
Counsellor, Embassy of Singapore
PROF. DEWI FORTUNA ANWAR
Chairman, the Habibie Centre
DENIS LUMBAN TORUAN
Senior Analyst, South China Sea Council
DR. DENISE MARGARET
Professor in Ecosystem-based Transformation Management, Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development
MAJ. DIANNE C DESPI
Military Assistant, Office of the Undersecretary for Strategic Assessments and Planning, Philippine Department of National Defense
PROF. DINGLI SHEN
Director, Center for American Studies, Grandview Institution
DOC LIGOT
DOC LIGOT
DON MCLAIN GILL
Lecturer, Department of International Studies, De La Salle University
EDGARDO JOPSON
,Lecturer, School of Economics, De La Salle University
GEN. EMMANUEL BAUTISTA (RET., AFP)
Member, WPS Foundation Philippines Advisory Board
ERIC ANG
Research Fellow, Yokosuka Council on Asia-pacific Studies (YCAPS)
ERICK NIELSON
Defense Research Officer, National Defense College of the Philippines
ASST. PROF. FAHADZ M. LULU
Assistant Professor, Philippine Women's University
FERNANDO DYSICO
Subic SQUAD Forum Fellow, YCAPS
PROF. FLORANTE DELOS SANTOS
Director, University of Makati
COL. FRANCEL MARGARETH PADILLA
Colonel, Armed Forces of the Philippines
FRANCES DAMAZO
National Programme Officer for Maritime Crime, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
FRANCIS GAJELLOMA
Research Assistant, Department of Political Science, University of Santo Tomas
FRANCIS M. ESTEBAN
Associate Dean, Institute of Arts and Sciences, Far Eastern University
FRANCIS NERI
Fiduciary Trustee, Indigenous Sovereign Estate Trust
GIOVANNI PARENTE
Fulbright Schuman's Visiting Scholar in Political Science, Center for European Studies, University of Texas at Austin
GEORGI ENGELBRECHT
Senior Analyst, International Crisis Group
DR GENEVIEVE QUIRK
Associate Lecturer in International Relations, University of Wollongong
PROF. GERRY NAGTZAAM
Professor, Faculty of Law, Monash University
GLENN JOSEPH SANTOS
Communications Manager, SeaLight Foundation
DR. GLORIA J. MERCADO
Chairperson, Asian Center for Excellence in Development and Security
GODWIL C. MAGAT
Business Intelligence Analyst, PSA Intelligence
PROF. HADJI BALAJADIA
Faculty, Ateneo de Davao University
DR. HAFIIZH HASHIM
Lecturer, Universiti Brunei Darussalam
HAI-YEN VU
Commercial Director, Apac Expo, Vietnam
HANSLEY JULIANO
Instructor, Department of Political Science, Ateneo de Manila University
DR HENELITO A SEVILLA JR.
Professor, Asian Center, University of the Philippines Diliman
Dr. HONG-KONG NGUYEN
Researcher,Centre for Interdisciplinary Social Research, Phenikaa University
PROF. HU BO
Director, South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative, South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative
JACQUELINE J. ESPENILLA
Senior Fellow, University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea
JADA FRASER
PhD Student, Department of Political Science and International Relations, University of Southern California
PROF. JAGANNATH PANDA
Head, Stockholm Center for South Asian and Indo-Pacific Affairs, Institute for Security and Development Policy (ISDP), Sweden
JANINA SANTOS
Associate Manager, Doublethink Lab
JAN UY
Researcher, Philippine Coast Guard
COMMO. JAY TARRIELA
Commander, Philippine Coast Guard - West Philippine Sea Transparency Group
PROF. JEFF PAYNE
Professor, Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies
DR. JEFFREY ORDANIEL
President & CEO, WPS; Lead Convenor, The Manila Dialogue on the South China Sea
JENAN NAZ
Graduate Student, International Studies Department, Miriam College
DR. JEREMY GATDULA
Dean, University of Asia and the Pacific Law School
JEROME MADRID INOC
Senior Economic Development Specialist, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development
JOEL NAOKI CHRISTOPH
Research Associate, Institute for International Legal Relations, FernUniversität in Hagen
PROF. JOHN CARLO
Instructor, Department of Political Economy, Polytechnic University of the Philippines
JOHN DE LIMA
Instructor, Department of Political Science, Ateneo de Manila University
JOHN LOUIS B. BENITO
Faculty, Department of International Studies, De La Salle University
JOHN PAUL ZALDARRIAGA
Policy Analyst
ATTY. JOHN PSALMUEL CHAN
Associate Solicitor, Office of the Solicitor General
JOHN ROSALES
Collegiate Instructor, Department of Humanities and Social Sciencesm, De La Salle University
JOMARI JESUS TAN
Instructor, Department of Political Science, University of Santo Tomas
JONA VILLASANTE
Committee Secretary, Philippine Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives
DR. JONATHAN ELI LIBUT
Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Asian Studies, University of Santo Tomas
JOSHUA BERNARD ESPEÑA
Lecturer, Department of Political Science and International Relations, Polytechnic University of the Philippines
ASST. PROF. JR JISON
Assistant Professor, Political Science Program, University of the Philippines Manila
JULES EDAR BALLARAN
ASEAN Trade Intern, British Embassy in Manila
KATARZYNA SYPIEŃ
Lecturer, PhD candidate, Jagiellonian University
KEVIN MADDELA
Social Science Mentor, Collegiate Lecturer, De La Salle University
KIRK PATRICK S. PABLO
Weapons Research Associate, Institutional Shareholder Services Philippines Inc.
KRITZMAN G. CABALLERO
Chief for International Cooperation, Philippine Space Agency
LE HARVEY D. SAN ANTONIO
OIC Committee Secretary, Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea, House of Representatives
DR LOWELL BAUTISTA
Associate Professor, School of Law, Western Sydney University
LUCAS MYERS
Assistant Director, China and U.S. Program, University of Maryland, College Park
LUCIO B. PITLO III
Member, Board of Directors, Philippine Association for Chinese Studies
COMMO. LUMA-ANG
Director, Hydrography Branch, NAMRIA
MUHAMMAD WAFFAA KHARISMA
Researcher, Department of International Relations, CSIS Indonesia
PROF. MA. TERESA GUANZON-DE GUZMAN
Dean and Professor, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines, Manila,
MARGERY B. BAUTISTA
Technical Consultant, Climate Resilience Specialist and Coach, EU PH Green Economy Partnership and Energy Evaluation Asia Pacific
MARIAN F. GONGORA
Faculty, Far Eastern University
MARK ESCAY
Business Development & Strategic Partnerships Lead, PSA Intelligence
ASG. MARKK L. PERETE
Assistant Solicitor General, Office of the Solicitor General
MASAKAZU TAKAMORI
CEO, Japan Nexus Intelligence Inc.
MATHYS HOUCKE
Political Advisor to the Defense Attaché, French Embassy
MATTEO PIASENTINI
Senior Lecturer, Department of Political Science, University of the Philippines Diliman
PROF. MINNA YU
Associate Professor, Law School, Ocean University of China
NAN HAO
International Geneva Peace Fellow, Interpeace & Geneva Graduate Institute
NEIL PANCHO
Assistant Professor V, Department of Political Science and History, Ateneo de Davao University
DR. NICOMEDES ALVIAR
Program Director, Public Governance and Leadership, School of Politics and Governance, University of Asia and the Pacific
NITIN ANANT
Head & Editor-in-Chief, StratNewsGlobal.com
COL. NIZAM BIN CHE ANI
Director of Training, Malaysian Armed Forces
NGUYEN-CAO VIET-HUNG
Research Associate, Faculty of Political Science and Economics, Waseda University
PAUL CHAMBERLAIN
Fellow, Conference of Defence Associations Institute Canada, Australian National University
PATRICK ZOLL
Correspondent for Geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific, Neue Zurcher Zeitung
PHIL ALEGRE
Visiting Fellow, Georgetown University
PRINCE LOUIE MAMHOT
Legislative Staff Officer, Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department, Philippine House of Representatives
PRINCESS NEPOMUCENO
Defense Researcher, Department of National Defense (DND)
DR. RAHMAN YAACOB
Research Fellow, Rabdan Security & Defence Institute
PROF. RENZO GUINTO
Associate Professor of Global and Planetary Health, SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, NUS
RALPH R. FRONDOZA
Head of Strategic Risk and Geoeconomics, CirroLytix Reserach Services
CAPT.RAUL ‘PETE’ PEDROZO (RET., USN)
Howard S. Levie Chair on the Law of Armed Conflict, U.S. Naval War College
RAY POWELL
Director, Sealight-Gordian Knot Center, Stanford University
REN YCASIANO
Committee Secretary, House of Representatives of the Philippines
DR. ROB HAYDEN
Executive Director, Asian Institute of Maritime Studies
ATTY. ROBERT BELTRAN
Attorney, Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines
DR. RONALD M. CASTILLO
Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, University of Santo Tomas
ATTY. ROWENA JOYCE
OIC Director, Legal Services, Department of Energy
ROY ORTEGA
Chief Fishing Regulations Officer, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
RYAN CLAFFEY
Research Assistant, Indo-Pacific Security Program, Center for a New American Security (CNAS)
PROF. SALAWATI MAT BASIR
Professor, Centre of International Law & Siyar, National University of Malaysia
SANTIAGO L. CASTILLO
Strategic Capture Specialist, KVG LLC
DR. SAPTOPO ILKODAR
Assistant Professor, Pembangunan Nasional Veteran University of Yogyakarta
SASHA BONAFEDE CHHABRA
Chairman, Taiwan International Center
DR. SCOTT EDWARDS
Senior Lecturer / Senior Research Fellow, Universiti Malaya / YCAPS
SEKSAN ANANTASIRIKIAT
Senior Researcher, International Studies Center (ISC), Thailand
DR.SHERWIN E. ONA
Associate Professor, Department of Political Science & Development Studies, De La Salle University
DR SONIA F PIMENTEL
Dean, University of Makati
AMB. SOTHIRAK POU
Distinguished Senior Advisor, Cambodian Center for Regional Studies
SUSANNAH PATTON
Non-resident Fellow, Lowy Institute
SOPHIYA NAVARRO
Program Manager for Security and Innovation, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Philippines
CAPT. STEPHAN LITZLER
Defense Attaché, French Embassy
SUZANNE FAELNAR
Convenor; Co-Founder and President, Z Group Global; Network Empowering Transformative Societies
THEA DOCENA
Planning Officer, Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs
THOMAS DANIEL
Director of Foreign Policy & Security Studies, Institute of Strategic & International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia
TONETTE DE JESUS
Senior Program Manager for Governance and Foreign Relations, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung
PROF. TOSH MINOHARA
Chairman, Research Institute of Indo-Pacific Affairs
TUAN KHANH NGUYEN
Lecturer, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University of HCMC
VENICE VILLANUEVA
Communications Specialist, Office of the President, Philippine Reclamation Authority
VINCENT KYLE PARADA
Lecturer, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde
WAYNE WINTER J. UYSECO
COL. XERXES A TRINIDAD
Chief of the Public Affairs Office, Armed Forces of the Philippines
CAPT. XIAOBO LIU (RET., PLAN)
Director, Marine Study Center, Grandview Institution, Beijing
XAVIER GENTALIAN
Collegiate Lecturer - Department of Political Science and Development Studies, De La Salle University
DR.XIAOQIN SHI
Adjunct Professor, School of Public Administration of, Zhejiang University
H.E. YULIIA FEDIV
Ukrainian Ambassador to the Philippine
PROF. ZHENG ZHIHUA
Associate Professor and Head of East Asia Marine Policy Project, Center for Japanese Studies, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
DR. ZSUZSA A FERENCZY
Member, Academic Council, Martens Center Brussels
PROF. VICTOR ANDRES MANHIT
President & CEO, Stratbase Group; Vice-Chair, We Protect our Seas
MARITES D. VITUG
Editor at Large, Rappler
PROF. RENE DE CASTRO
Distinguished Professor, De La Salle University
DR. AARON JED RABENA
Assistant Professor, University of the Philippines Asian Center
Dr. Aaron Jed Rabena is Professorial Lecturer at the Asian Center in the University of the Philippines Diliman. His areas of interests include Strategic Studies, Greater East Asian Geopolitics and Multilateral Politics, Political Risk, Maritime Security, and Chinese Politics and Foreign Policy.
AGNES SILVA
Director, Far Eastern University
Before joining the academe, Agnes spent 13 years working for international non-profit organisations in disaster response and aid management. Her experience revolves around development logistics operations using GIS Technology in Asia and in Africa. A graduate of MSc Globalisation & Development from SOAS, University of London, Agnes’ research is focused on Climate Change and Natural Disasters in coastal Philippine areas and its impact on women in the informal sector. Currently the Director of the FEU International Relations Office, Agnes is also an active member of the Development Studies Association UK.
ALIAH ADAM
Director, The Respair Foundation
Ms. Aliah Baniaga Adam is the Philippine Director of The Respair Foundation who has spent her career as a peace advocate and civil society practitioner from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). She also co-leads a project, funded by the Australian National University Philippines Institute, examining strategic competition dynamics in Mindanao. She is also the founder of Singanen o Mindanao and the Bangsamoro Women Peacebuilder's Network. Ms. Adam has dedicated her work to grassroots peacebuilding and community-based initiatives, particularly among vulnerable and conflict-affected communities in the Bangsamoro. Her areas of engagement include peacebuilding, humanitarian assistance, early warning and early response, gender-based violence prevention, support and creating safe & inclusive spaces for women and youth and development process.
ALTAMIRA REYES
Chief Defense Analyst, Strategic Studies & Strategy Management Office, Philippine Navy
Ms. Reyes is currently the Chief Defense Analyst of the Office for Strategic Studies and Strategy Management, Philippine Navy (ONSSSM, PN), and has been involved in maritime-related work since 2020. She holds a Master's Degree in Asian Studies specializing in Northeast Asia (Japan) from the UP Asian Center. Her research interests lie in Japan Studies, Philippine-Japan Relations, and Defense and Security in the Indo-Pacific.
PROF. ALIZA RACELIS
Professor, University of the Philippines Virata School of Business,
Aliza Racelis received her PhD in Business Administration (University of the Philippines Diliman) in April 2010. She is a Management and Business Ethics professor at the University of the Philippines Business School. Her current research interests are in the areas of Business Ethics, Corporate Governance, A.I. Ethics, Virtue Theory, Social Responsibility, Transcendental Leadership, and Sustainability. In 2018, she was granted a Fulbright scholarship to do research and teaching in the U.S. during the Fall Term.
ANDREW MANTONG
Senior Researcher, Department of International Relations, CSIS Indonesia
Andrew Wiguna Mantong is a researcher at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Indonesia whose work focuses on Indonesian foreign policy, ASEAN regionalism, and the evolving interplay between security and economic statecraft. Since joining CSIS in 2015, he has produced extensive analysis on ASEAN’s institutional development, Indonesia’s strategic posture, great-power rivalry, middle-power collaboration, and the nexus between non-traditional security and domestic politics. He has served as national and regional consultant for ASEAN, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other agencies of Indo-Pacific and European countries, contributing to work on conflict prevention, regional security architecture, critical minerals supply chains, diplomatic posture strengthening, and economic security.
ANDREW MARRIOTT
Managing Director, Apac Expo, UK
Andrew C. Marriott is the Managing Director of APAC Expo Pte Ltd and has extensive experience organizing defense, security, and cybersecurity exhibitions across Asia, including the Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) series and Cybersphere Philippines.
ATOKA JO
Director, Japan Nexus Intelligence
Atoka Jo is the Director of Japan Nexus Intelligence, a Japan-based risk advisory and analytics firm specializing in open-source intelligence, disinformation analysis, and information-environment risk. Her work focuses on how governments, corporations, and public institutions respond to reputational threats, online manipulation, and emerging challenges in the cognitive and digital domains, as well as the broader intersection of technology, security, and strategic communications. She has been involved in developing analytical and advisory initiatives that support both public and private sector stakeholders navigating complex information environments in Japan. Atoka received her undergraduate degree from New York University Abu Dhabi and a Masterʼs degree from Schwarzman College at Tsinghua University. She is a Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2023 honoree and a member of the World Economic Forumʼs Global Shapers. She has also participated in various international leadership and policy initiatives as a Japan representative, including G7 Youth (Y7) 2019 conference and One Young World 2018
PROF. BANYU PERWITA
Professor of International Relations, Indonesia Defense University
Prof. Anak Agung Banyu Perwita is Professor of International Relations, Indonesia Defense University. His subject interests are security and defense studies. He got his PhD from Flinders University, Australia.
DR. BENJAMIN BLANDIN
Expert in Maritime Security, YCAPS
Dr. Benjamin Blandin is a Taiwan-based research fellow affiliated with the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR) under the Taiwan Fellowship programme.
BLAKE HERZINGER
Asia Defense and National Security Policy Lead, Microsoft
Blake Herzinger is Microsoft’s Asia Defense and National Security Government Affairs Lead, based in Singapore. He works with governments and national security institutions across the Indo-Pacific on defense modernization, cybersecurity, cloud adoption, and the policies required to employ emerging technologies securely and effectively.Before joining Microsoft, Blake held senior regional policy and strategy roles at Citi and Twitter and previously worked as a defense consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton. His career has spanned government, technology, financial services, and national security, with a consistent focus on the strategic and policy challenges shaping the Indo-Pacific.Blake is also a Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and a Foreign Area Officer specializing in the Indo-Pacific. He previously served for ten years on active duty as a naval intelligence officer, including operational assignments supporting maritime security, antisubmarine warfare, and combat operations in Libya. He later led a U.S. Navy intelligence and unmanned aviation detachment deployed aboard USS Lewis B. Puller in the Middle East. His reserve assignments have included roles with U.S. Pacific Fleet and U.S. Naval Forces Korea.A frequent writer and commentator on Asian security, maritime strategy, alliances, and defense technology, Blake has published with leading policy institutions in the United States, Australia, Japan, and Singapore. He is the author of Managing the Unbreakable Alliance, a practical guide to the U.S.–Australia alliance, a co-author of Carrier Killer, and regularly contributes to public discussions on regional security and the future of defense.
DR. BRIAN U. DOCE
Public Policy and Research Manager, Uniersalis
Brian U. Doce is a practitioner-scholar. As a practitioner, he works in the space of government affairs and strategic communications. As a scholar, he works on various political economy and international relations topics.
BYRON BICENIO
Supervising Legislative Staff Officer III, Philippine House of Representatives
Mr. Bicenio has written policy papers, written speeches, and done editorial work for the Congressional Policy and Budget Office of the House of Representatives. He has a masters degree in Public Policy from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy from the National University of Singapore, and a Masters in National Security Administration from the National Defense College of the Philippines. Mr. Bicenio has prior experience in the private sector, having worked for information technology, publishing and public relations firms. He has written a paper on the role of Congress in West Philippine Sea matters.
CARICE WITTE
Executive Director, SIGNAL Group
Carice Witte is the Founder and Executive Director of SIGNAL Group. In 2011, Ms. Witte initiated Chinese-Israeli Track II exchanges and launched an annual program in Israel for Chinese faculty on teaching Israel Studies, leading to the establishment of Israel Studies Programs at universities across China. Having conducted over 1,500 briefings in both China and Israel, Ms. Witte established an annual conference on Israel’s China policy in 2016 and, in 2017, a semi-annual China-Israel and annual China-Israel-U.S. Track II dialogue, fostering high-level policy discussions between key global players. In 2019, she introduced a seminar series tailored for international experts, government officials, and policy professionals focused on China’s evolving geopolitical role. As China’s global influence has grown, Ms. Witte has expanded SIGNAL Group’s work to include the Indo-Pacific region and is often a speaker at international security conferences across Asia. A recognized authority on China and China-Israel affairs, she has made significant contributions to the academic and policy fields, publishing numerous articles, research papers, and policy analyses on topics such as Sino-Israeli relations, China’s policy reforms, and the impact of these developments on Israel and the broader Middle East. Her research also explores China’s role in global governance, including the United Nations, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, with a focus on China’s strategic involvement in the Middle East.
ATTY. CECILIA JIMENEZ-DAMARY
Senior Professional Lecturer, De La Salle University
Atty. Cecilia Jimenez-Damary is an international lawyer in Public International Law, with a focus on International Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law and International Criminal Law. In addition to international consultancies, she is currently teaching in the College of Liberal Arts of the De La Salle University in Manila, where she teaches Public International Law (among others). Atty. Jimenez-Damary is a former UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons and has just been appointed by the UN Secretary-General as the Asia-Pacific member of the Board of Trustees of the UN Voluntary Fund for Technical Cooperation in Human Rights, appointed by the UN Secretary-General. Her interest in the issue of the West Philippine Sea stems from her specialisation in Public International Law, including the law of armed coflict in the sea.
DR CHESTER CABALZA
Founding President, International Development and Security Cooperationphili
Dr. Chester Cabalza is the founding president of the International Development and Security Cooperation. He is a security scientist and strategist. He wrote critical books on Self-Reliant Defense Posture (2025), Philippine Territorial Defense (2024), and The Rise of Philippinedization (2021). A former Professor at the National Defenae College and Senior Lecturer at the University of the Philippines Diliman. He now a professor of International Security and Director at the Development Academy of the Philippines. He os a Fellow in Philippine Public Safety College, the University of Delaware, and France’s Institute des Etudes de Defense Nationale.
DR. CHIEW PING HOO
Co-Founder and Senior Fellow, East Asian International Relations Caucus
Dr. Chiew-Ping Hoo is Co-founder and Senior Fellow of the East Asian International Relations Caucus (EAIR Caucus) in Malaysia and a Senior Research Fellow at the Yokosuka Council on Asia-Pacific Studies (YCAPS). She is concurrently a member of the Asia Pacific Nuclear Advisory Panel (APNAP) at the British American Security Information Council (BASIC), an expert roster of the Open Nuclear Network (ONN), and an Editorial Board Member for the Routledge IR and Politics in Asia book series. Dr. Hoo is recognized for her expertise on the Korean Peninsula, Malaysia’s foreign and defense policies, and regional nuclear-strategic issues. Her work on maritime security focuses specifically on Malaysia’s strategic posture regarding the South China Sea and the intersection between regional nuclear energy development and the maritime domain. Additionally, her broader research covers conflict management and maritime disputes among China, Japan, and South Korea, as well as the evolution of naval cooperation throughout the Indo-Pacific. Currently, she is examining nuclear-maritime security linkages across the Korean Peninsula, the Taiwan Strait, and maritime Southeast Asia. She received her PhD in Politics and International Relations from La Trobe University, Australia.
CHLOE MAE DE GUZMAN
Deputy Executive Secretary, Philippine International Law of the Sea Academy Inc.
Ms. Chloe Mae de Guzman is the Deputy Executive Secretary of the Philippine International Law of the Sea Academy Inc. (PHILSEA) and an alumnus of the academy's 2025 cohort. A double-degree graduate in AB Development Studies and BS Legal Management from De La Salle University - Manila, she has actively expanded her international engagement as a participant in the International Convention on the Law of the Sea in South Korea. Continuing her dedication to the field, she actively pursues academic and policy research focusing on the Law of the Sea and Maritime Law.
CLARISSE E. RUTOR-GARCIO
Director, Planning and Knowledge Management Services, National Security Council
Ms Clarissa E Rutor-Garcio is currently OIC-Director of Planning and Compliance Services (PKMS) National Security Council (NSC). As Director of PCS, her remit includes coordinating, developing, and monitoring an organization's strategic and operational plans to ensure they align with the NSC's overarching goals. She assists the Assistant Director General for Planning and Knowledge Management in translating high-level organizational or governmental goals into actionable programs, coordinate resource allocation, and monitor performance progress. As part of her remit, she works with government bodies, local units, and external partners to operationalize security policies via long-term strategic plans and short-term operational action items across units and departments. Director Rutor-Garcio holds a Master in National Security Administration as well as a Master in Management major in Public Administration. She also holds a Juris Doctor degree.
DR. COLLIN KOH
Senior fellow, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies
Collin Koh is senior fellow at the Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies which is a constituent unit of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, based in Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. He has research interests on naval affairs in the Indo-Pacific, focusing on Southeast Asia. Collin has published several op-eds, policy- and academic journal articles as well as chapters for edited volumes covering his research areas. His most recent publications include: The South China Sea: the Flashpoint of War Between China and the United States, published with the Journal of Chinese Political Science (2025); Keeping One at Arm’s Length: The Missile & Nuclear Dimension of China’s Counter-Intervention Strategy in the Western Pacific, published with the Pacific Forum International (2025); Confidence and Security Building Measures in Southeast Asia's Maritime Domain, published with the Asia-Pacific Leadership Network (2023). Collin has also taught at Singapore Armed Forces professional military education and training courses. Besides research and teaching, he also contributes his perspectives to various local and international media outlets, and participates in activities with geopolitical risks consultancies. At present Collin is in the process of compiling a database consisting of up to 18 selected countries in the Indo-Pacific, comprising information related to their naval forces development and structures, national policy discourses, confidence-building and cooperative measures, as well as incidences of the threat and use of force at sea. This is a continuation of his doctoral dissertation which compares naval modernization in Southeast Asia with those from the surrounding broader Indo-Pacific region.
DR. CRISTINA DE ESPERANZA PICARDO
Research Assistant, Elcano Royal Institute
Cristina de Esperanza Picardo works at the Elcano Royal Institute, Spain. She holds a MSc in Strategic Studies from RSIS, Singapore, and a PhD in International Relations from King’s College London and the National University of Singapore, where she completed her thesis on EU-ASEAN relations. Her current research focuses on the international relations of East Asia, with a focus on Southeast Asia and ASEAN, as well as EU foreign policy towards the region. Previously, she was a visiting PhD researcher at the Centre for Security, Diplomacy and Strategy and a member of the Indo Pacific Research Group at King’s College London. She has also worked at the EU Institute for Security Studies (Asia desk) and at the Delegation of the European Union to Australia.
DERECK JUDE LORENZO
Scholar, Department of Asian Studies, University of Santo Tomas
Dereck Jude M. Lorenzo is a student leader from University of Santo Tomas and one of the lead organizers of the Ilocos Norte Model ASEAN Meeting (INMAM). He is actively involved in youth diplomacy, policy dialogue, and civic engagement initiatives that promote informed discussions on regional and national issues. As part of INMAM, he helps spearhead the Ilocano Dialogue on the West Philippine Sea, a youth-led platform that brings together policymakers, academics, security experts, and students to foster greater awareness of maritime security, international law, and the Philippines' role in a rules-based Indo-Pacific region. His interests include ASEAN affairs, regional security, youth leadership, and public policy.
DESMOND OH
Counsellor, Embassy of Singapore
PROF. DEWI FORTUNA ANWAR
Chairman, the Habibie Centre
Dewi Fortuna Anwar is an Academician of the Social Science Commission of the Indonesian Academy of Sciences (AIPI), a Research Professor at the Research Center for Politics, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Habibie Center (THC) and Co-Founder of the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI). In 2001-2010 she was Deputy for Social Sciences and Humanities, Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI). In 2010-2017 Dewi served as a Deputy Secretary to the Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia. She wass the Pok Rafeah Chairholder at the Institute of Malaysian and International Studies, National University of Malaysia (IKMAS UKM) (April to October 2025). Dewi was a Distinguished Visiting Professor at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), NTU, Singapore (August 2017- July 2018), the Kippenberger Visiting Chair at Victoria University, Wellington (October-November 2018) and a Distinguished Visiting Professor at SAIS, Johns Hopkins University in 2007. She has written widely on Indonesia’s foreign policy, and ASEAN regional political and security issues. Dewi sits and has sat in a number of national and international advisory boards i.a. Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) in 2019-2025, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) in 2010-2020, and the UN Secretary General Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters in 2008-2012. She obtained her PhD from Monash University, Melbourne, while her M.A. and B.A. (Hons) were from SOAS, University of London.
DENIS LUMBAN TORUAN
Senior Analyst, South China Sea Council
Mr. Denis Toruan manages the publication for South China Sea Council; an independent think-tank from Indonesia who promotes peace and cooperation in ASEAN and South China Sea region. He holds a Master Degree in International Relations and is also a Sinologist who works mainly in China social-culture issue and politics. He is also a senior editor and online publication manager for a geopolitics & defence e-magazine.
DR. DENISE MARGARET
Professor in Ecosystem-based Transformation Management, Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development
Prof. Dr. Denise Margaret Matias is a Professor at the Department of Forest, Wood, and Environment at the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development in Germany. She previously held research and postdoctoral positions in projects focusing on grasslands sustainability in Mongolia, climate change adaptation, and Indigenous forestry livelihoods in the Philippines. In 2024, she was recognised as one of six Planet Earth Awardees by the Alliance of World Scientists (AWS) for her outreach work with Indigenous communities in the Philippines and was also given the Kalayaan Award for Science by the Philippine Embassy in Berlin in the same year. She is currently leading two projects focusing on the South China Sea: BÖLT Meer (Biodiversity, Economy, Livelihoods and Traditions in the South China Sea: towards a transdisciplinary research strategy) funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space of Germany (BMFTR) and the European Biodiversity Partnership (Biodiversa+) project PaCE (Peace and Conservation of Ecology at Disputed Seas) funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). For more information on PaCE, please visit www.pace-biodiversa.eu (Photo ©Florian Reischauer)
MAJ. DIANNE C DESPI
Military Assistant, Office of the Undersecretary for Strategic Assessments and Planning, Philippine Department of National Defense
Major Dianne Despi is a member of the Corps of Professors of the Armed Forces of the Philippines currently serving as Military Assistant at the Office of the Undersecretary for Strategic Assessment and Planning, Department of National Defense. She is a doctoral candidate in Political Science and International Relations at the University of Delaware under the Fulbright Foreign Student Program. She was also a Southeast Asian Young Leader of the 2022 and 2023 Shangri-La Dialogue, and also a reviewer for the Asian Politics and Policy Journal. Her dissertation research focuses on the role of maritime strategic culture in shaping the security behavior of insular Southeast Asian states in contested maritime spaces. Her broader interests include international security, maritime strategy, and regional security dynamics in Southeast Asia.
PROF. DINGLI SHEN
Director, Center for American Studies, Grandview Institution
Shen Dingli is a member of Grandview Institution’s Academic Committee, and its Director of Center for American Studies. He is a professor emeritus and former executive dean at Fudan University’s Institute of International Studies, and former Director of Center for American Studies. He is also an Honorary Visiting Professor of Washington University in St. Louis. He has taught international security, China-US relations, China’s foreign and defense policy in China, the US and the “Semester at Sea” Program. His research and publication covers China-US security relations, regional security and international strategy, arms control and nonproliferation, foreign and defense policy of China and the US etc. He was Vice President of Chinese Association of South Asian Studies, Shanghai Association of International Studies, Shanghai Association of International Strategic Studies, Shanghai Association of American Studies, Shanghai UN Research Association, and Shanghai Public Policy Research Association. He received his Ph.D. in physics from Fudan in 1989 and did post-doc in arms control at Princeton University from 1989-1991. He was an Eisenhower Fellow in 1996, and advised in 2002 the then UN Secretary General Kofi Annan for his strategic planning of second term. He is on the Global Council of the Asia Society, and on the International Advisory Board of Asia-Pacific Leadership Network for Nuclear-Nonproliferation and Disarmament. He has been appointed by both Shanghai and Hangzhou Municipality as Convention Ambassador, respectively. He has co-edited 17 books and published over 2,500 papers and articles worldwide.
DOC LIGOT
DOC LIGOT
Dominic “Doc” Ligot is one of the leading voices in artificial intelligence in the Philippines, known for his pioneering work in AI ethics, responsible AI adoption, and social impact through data. A technologist, data scientist, and entrepreneur with nearly three decades of experience, his work spans finance, public health, human rights, food security, and combating disinformation. He is the founder of CirroLytix, an award winning social impact AI training and consulting company, and AI and Data Ethics PH, an advocacy community tackling the societal implications of data and AI. He also serves as Director for AI Ethics and Data Governance at the Philippine AI Business Association.
DON MCLAIN GILL
Lecturer, Department of International Studies, De La Salle University
Dr. Don McLain Gill is a Manila-based geopolitical analyst, author, and lecturer at the Department of International Studies, De La Salle University. is an Indo-Pacific Research Fellow at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, a Non-Resident Fellow at the Stratbase Institute, and an Advisory Board Member of the WPS Foundation. His work centers on maritime security, Indo-Pacific geopolitics, Philippine foreign policy, and India-Southeast Asia relations. He has written in the form of books, book chapters, peer-reviewed international journal articles, newspaper columns, and commentary articles for renowned international affairs publishers. He is regularly invited as speaker by universities, government agencies, research institutions, and think tanks across Asia, Australia, North America, and Europe on topics and themes within his area of work. These include maritime security cooperation, regional geopolitics, Philippine foreign policy, and defense issues in the Indo-Pacific. Additionally, he is also interviewed regularly by international television channels including ABC, BBC, DW, and Al Jazeera, as well as newspapers such as The Washington Post, Reuters, NIKKEI Asia, and the Straits Times, among others. He completed his Ph.D. in International Relations at the University of Portsmouth
EDGARDO JOPSON
,Lecturer, School of Economics, De La Salle University
Edgardo Manuel Jopson brings unrivalled expertise in economics, data science, and government contracting to his role as CEO of IXEAN. With dual master’s degrees in Economics from De La Salle University (DLSU) and Data Analytics from Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), both earned under full scholarship, Edgardo combines his technical skill set with strategic leadership. As Division Chief of the Business Economics Division at the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), Edgardo has consistently demonstrated exceptional proficiency in managing complex antitrust cases, conducting rigorous policy analysis, and overseeing critical administrative operations. Over the course of his ten-year tenure, he has led investigations into numerous multibillion-peso mergers and acquisitions across different industries, including energy (conventional and renewable), banking, fintech, e-commerce, logistics, original equipment manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, FMCG, construction, cement, and real estate. In addition to his regulatory achievements, Edgardo has extensive experience negotiating business-to-government (B2G) contracts and navigating government procurement processes. As a private consultant for the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and an active PhilGEPS contractor, he has honed his ability to execute successful public-sector bids, positioning IXEAN to excel in government contracting. Apart from his role at Ixean, Edgardo serves as a part-time faculty member at the University of the Philippines School of Economics and Ateneo de Manila University’s Department of Economics, where he teaches Data Science and Econometrics. Under Edgardo’ guidance and leadership, IXEAN is set to harness his expertise in economics, advanced analytics, and public-sector engagement to drive innovation, technological advancement, and sustained growth in the ASEAN technology sector.
GEN. EMMANUEL BAUTISTA (RET., AFP)
Member, WPS Foundation Philippines Advisory Board
GENERAL EMMANUEL T BAUTISTA (Ret.) was the 44th Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines from January 2013 to July 2014. Shortly after retirement from the military service, he was appointed Undersecretary at the Office of the President, Malacañang from 01 September 2014 to 22 June 2020. As Undersecretary, he served as Executive Director of the Cabinet Cluster for Security, Justice, and Peace and was concurrently the Executive Director of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea and Head of the National Task Force on the Whole of Nation Initiative. He was also part of the team that represented the Philippines in the South China Sea arbitration case filed before the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague.Currently, he is a Managing Director at the Ayala Corporation, President of the Hero Foundation, member of the WPS (We Protect Our Seas) Philippine Advisory Board, and member of the board of trustees of the Foundation for National Interest. He is also a lecturer at the Development Academy of the Philippines, the National Defense College of the Philippines and the Ateneo School of Government.General Bautista is a graduate of Philippine Military Academy, Class of 1981, and is one of its outstanding alumni awardees; and of the University of the Philippines (U.P.), Diliman where he earned a Masters in Business Administration degree and was a recipient of the U.P. Alumni Association distinguished alumni award for peace and social cohesion.
ERIC ANG
Research Fellow, Yokosuka Council on Asia-pacific Studies (YCAPS)
Eric Ang is a PhD student at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) - Singapore, a Chartered Marine Technologist (CMarTech) Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST), and a Research Fellow with the Yokosuka Council on Asia-Pacific Studies (YCAPS). His work focuses on maritime governance and security in Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific.
ERICK NIELSON
Defense Research Officer, National Defense College of the Philippines
Mr Erick Nielson C Javier is a Defense Research Officer at the Research and Special Studies Division of the National Defense College of the Philippines. Previously, he served as a Defense Analyst at the Office for Strategic Studies and Strategy Management, Armed Forces of the Philippines. He completed his Master of Arts in Political Science, major in Global Politics, in 2017 at the Ateneo de Manila University. His research interests include defense industrial base issues, the future of warfare, and small-state deterrence.
ASST. PROF. FAHADZ M. LULU
Assistant Professor, Philippine Women's University
Fahadz Lulu teaches at the School of Arts and Sciences of the Philippine Women’s University (PWU), where I handle subjects such as Introduction to ASEAN Culture and History and Philippine Indigenous Societies: A Socio-Anthropological Approach. Currently, I am studying topics related to Sirawai, the Kolibugan tribe, the Tausug, pagsasaatan or putikaan, the Iglesia ni Cristo, and analyzing the Tausug local story “Lutaw Bantut.”
FERNANDO DYSICO
Subic SQUAD Forum Fellow, YCAPS
Fernando Dysico serves as a 2026 Subic SQUAD Forum Fellow at YCAPS. His research interests include fiscal policy, political economy, and energy policy. He previously contributed to fiscal policy research at the Hoover Institution and the Philippine Department of Finance. He also developed proposed regulations on data centers for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in Mathematical Economics and International Studies from Susquehanna University.
PROF. FLORANTE DELOS SANTOS
Director, University of Makati
Prof. Florante Delos Santos is director of University Publications Office and concurrent director of the Center for Gender and Development at University of Makati.
COL. FRANCEL MARGARETH PADILLA
Colonel, Armed Forces of the Philippines
COL FRANCEL MARGARETH A. PADILLACybersecurity Woman LeaderColonel Francel Margareth A. Padilla, a distinguished alumna of the Philippine Military Academy “Sanghaya” Class of 2000, is a commissioned officer of the Philippine Army Signal Corps with a career spanning three decades. She has served in key technology-driven positions encompassing cybersecurity, research, operations, communications, administration, and leadership.Her notable assignments include service with the Presidential Security Group, where she was involved in VVIP protection, and critical roles during the COVID-19 pandemic as Information Systems Officer and Head Executive Assistant to the Chief Implementer of the National Action Plan Against COVID-19. She also commanded the 7th Signal Battalion in Northern Luzon, leading the modernization of Command, Control, Communications, and Cyber (C4) capabilities.A recognized cybersecurity advocate and international lecturer, Colonel Padilla is a TEDx Speaker who promotes the “Cyber for Peace Initiative.” In 2023, she was named Global Cybersecurity Woman Leader of the Year, selected from nominees across 62 countries. She was also recognized among the Top 30 Women in Security in ASEAN (2021) and Top 10 Women in Cybersecurity in the Philippines (2020).As the first female Spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, she continues to champion cybersecurity, responsible AI, Women, Peace and Security, and gender and development. A Certified Ethical Hacker and Certified Secure Computer User, she exemplifies innovation, resilience, and transformative leadership.
FRANCES DAMAZO
National Programme Officer for Maritime Crime, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
Frances Damazo currently serves as the National Programme Officer (Maritime Crime) of the UNODC Global Maritime Crime Programme based in Manila, Philippines. She is responsible for implementing initative focused on strengthening regional coordination, capacity building, and introduction of new technology to enhance maritime law enforcement capabilities in the country.
FRANCIS GAJELLOMA
Research Assistant, Department of Political Science, University of Santo Tomas
Francis Glenn G. Gajelloma is a Political Science student at the University of Santo Tomas, with academic interests in international relations, law, political economy, artificial intelligence, and social science research. He currently serves as a Research Assistant to Asst. Prof. Ronald M. Castillo, Ph.D., where he contributes to research proposals, literature reviews, manuscript development, and qualitative and quantitative research activities. His research interests include AI and political narratives, governance, international law, and public policy. He has also gained professional experience through internships with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, the Department of National Defense and Manahan-Urbino Law Office, supporting procurement, policy-related research, legal research, documentation, and administrative processes. Gajelloma holds Civil Service Career Service Professional Eligibility and has completed certifications in quantitative research, qualitative methods, research integrity, Python for social scientists, international criminal law, human rights, public policy, and legal writing. He has also served in various student leadership and debate adjudication roles.
FRANCIS M. ESTEBAN
Associate Dean, Institute of Arts and Sciences, Far Eastern University
Francis M. Esteban is a faculty member at the Department of International Studies and currently serves as the Associate Dean of the Institute of Arts and Sciences at the Far Eastern University. He finished his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science at the University of Santo Tomas, and took his Master of Law in International Relations at Jilin University, Changchun, P.R. China. He is a member of the Philippine International Studies Organization, the Philippine Political Science Association, and the Philippine Association for Chinese Studies. His research interests and publications revolve around topics on Philippine Foreign Policy, Chinese Foreign Policy, US-Philippine relations, and Northeast Asia relations.
FRANCIS NERI
Fiduciary Trustee, Indigenous Sovereign Estate Trust
Francis Neri is a Systems Architect and Fiduciary Trustee with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. His work operates at the intersection of autonomous defense technologies, including edge AI, UAVs, and robotics, and constitutional law. Over the past 13 years, he has conducted extensive independent research into the structural and legal foundations of Philippine territorial sovereignty, specifically analyzing the 1898 Treaty of Paris "interim status" and the unresolved documentary chain of the 1764 fee simple title. His research focuses on how unperfected Article 1 Territorial Integrity creates systemic vulnerabilities that paralyze national defense, procurement, and the West Philippine Sea claims. He is currently developing the FIDNT (Fiduciary-Identified Data-Native Trust) protocol, an open-source API and audit engine designed to evaluate systemic risk and legal authentication in government transactions. He attends The Manila Dialogue as an observer to analyze how geopolitical defense strategies align with, or are constrained by, domestic constitutional and fiduciary architectures, and to explore the intersection of hardware, software, and sovereignty in national security.
GIOVANNI PARENTE
Fulbright Schuman's Visiting Scholar in Political Science, Center for European Studies, University of Texas at Austin
Dr Giovanni Parente is Fulbright Schuman’s Visiting Scholar in Political Science at the University of Texas at Austin, co-funded by the European Commission and the United States Department of State and hosted by Professor Michael Mosser between September 2026 and May 2027. He is currently on unpaid leave from University College Dublin, where he is a Research Ireland’s Postdoctoral Research Fellow (GOIPD/2025/935) for his project on the European Union's maritime security strategy, mentored by Professor Ben Tonra. Previously, he was an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Trinity College Dublin, an Adjunct Lecturer at Dublin City University, and an Adjunct Professor at Maynooth University, the Irish Department of Defence, the Irish Military College, the Irish Naval Service, and the Armed Forces of Malta. Dr Parente holds a PhD in History from Maynooth University, where he was an Irish Research Council/Research Ireland’s "Government of Ireland" scholar, supervised by Professor Ian Speller. His doctoral thesis, "The European Union at Sea", was shortlisted for the “Global Strategy PhD Prize” by the European Security and Defence College and the Egmont Institute in 2025. He is the author of "Rethinking Naval Diplomacy: Roles and Impacts of Smaller Member States on the European Union’s Maritime Security Strategy" (Palgrave Macmillan, forthcoming in 2027), and he is currently working on his second manuscript on the European Union-United States maritime security cooperation for Routledge (out in 2028) as part of his Fulbright Schuman's grant.
GEORGI ENGELBRECHT
Senior Analyst, International Crisis Group
Georgi Engelbrecht joined Crisis Group in late September 2019. As Senior Analyst for the Philippines, he focuses mostly on the various conflicts and peace processes within the country. In addition, he carries out research and analysis of topics relevant to the Philippine neighbourhood, such as the South China Sea or the Sulu Sea. Mr. Engelbrecht worked for around 8 years on the Southern Philippines, mostly on conflict prevention and civilian protection. He was part of the International Monitoring Team (IMT) in Mindanao until 2019. He has master’s degrees in international law and international relations.
DR GENEVIEVE QUIRK
Associate Lecturer in International Relations, University of Wollongong
Dr Genevieve Quirk BSc (UQ), DULF (University of Paris III–Sorbonne), MEnvLaw (ANU), PhD (UOW) is an Associate Lecturer in International Relations at the University of Wollongong. Dr Quirk’s research examines the governance architecture implementing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea focusing on the ecological security. Her postdoctoral research examined Maritime Security Alliances in the Pacific. Her PhD from the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security explored the evolution of regional ocean governance and diplomacy by Pacific States over 75 years. Dr Quirk’s co-authored book, journal articles, and policy briefings focus on Indo Pacific ecological security. Dr Quirk has joined the Australian delegation to the United Nations on SDG14, the High Seas Biodiversity Treaty, and Track 1.5 diplomatic missions with Vietnam and the Philippines. She is on the editorial board of the journal Marine Policy, an East West Centre Visiting Fellow, Earth System Governance Research Fellow and a member of the IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law. Dr Quirk joined the Australian delegation to the UN in relation to SDG14 and the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty. In Brussels, Dr Quirk worked as a Policy Advisor on ocean governance reform in the EU. Previously, she held the position of Lecturer at the University of Paris II–Pantheon-Assas for three years whilst also consulting to UNESCO.
PROF. GERRY NAGTZAAM
Professor, Faculty of Law, Monash University
Prof. Gerry Nagtzaam is Professor of Environmental Law at Monash University, Australia. His research focuses on international environmental law, ocean governance, fisheries governance, biodiversity conservation, and human security. His work examines how legal and governance frameworks contribute to sustainable marine resource management, regional cooperation, and environmental resilience, with particular attention to the Indo-Pacific and the South China Sea. His current research explores the role of fisheries governance in strengthening food security, ecological sustainability, and regional stability. His research seeks to bridge legal scholarship and policymaking by developing practical governance approaches to contemporary environmental and maritime challenges.
GLENN JOSEPH SANTOS
Communications Manager, SeaLight Foundation
Glenn Joseph Santos is the communications manager of the SeaLight Foundation - a non profit organization monitoring gray zone activities in the South China Sea, He is a graduate of Bachelor of Arts in International Studies at Far Eastern University. Mr. Santos specialization are maritime security, foreign policy analysis, and geopolitics.
DR. GLORIA J. MERCADO
Chairperson, Asian Center for Excellence in Development and Security
GLORIA JUMAMIL-MERCADO, PhD, MNSA is a Philippine public-sector leader, academic, and development-security specialist whose work focuses on China, Taiwan, Indo-Pacific geopolitics, national security, and the development-security nexus. She currently serves as Commissioner of the National Commission for Senior Citizens and was Chairman and CEO of the Asian Center of Excellence in Development and Security (ACEDS). She previously held senior government positions as Deputy Cabinet Secretary in the Office of the President and Senior Undersecretary at the Department of Education. She was also Senior Vice President for Development Education of the Development Academy of the Philippines and concurrent Dean of the Graduate School of Public and Development Management, . She also chaired the Philippine Government Implementing Panel involved in the implementation of the Bangsamoro peace agreement. Dr. Mercado holds a PhD in Mainland China Studies from National Sun Yat-sen University in Taiwan and a Master in National Security Administration (MNSA). She is also a Commodore of the Philippine Navy Reserve and the Philippine Representative to the ASEAN Women Peace Registry. Her scholarship and policy work examine Philippine-China-Taiwan relations, the West Philippine Sea, hybrid and gray-zone challenges, the First Island Chain, national resilience, and regional security cooperation. In 2026, she served as a Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs Post-Doctoral International Fellow at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR), where her research explored emotional legitimacy, national sentiment, and Philippine-Taiwan security cooperation amid geopolitical and hybrid-security pressures.
GODWIL C. MAGAT
Business Intelligence Analyst, PSA Intelligence
Godwil Magat is a business intelligence analyst in PSA Intelligence, a risk intelligence firm advising different companies and international organizations within the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific. He translates geopolitical, foreign affairs and national security developments into actionable intelligence for private sector decision-makers. As part of this, he monitors the West Philippine Sea and the administration's foreign policy and legislative priorities. Godwil obtained his bachelor's degree in diplomacy and international relations at Ateneo de Manila University. In addition to his current role, his career covers previous roles in the private sector centered on workplace wellbeing in different industries, environmental conservation, and experiences with nonprofit organizations in the international development space.
PROF. HADJI BALAJADIA
Faculty, Ateneo de Davao University
Prof. Hadji Balajadia is a fulltime faculty in Ateneo de Davao University engaged in policy advisory and civil society work in Southern Philippines. For over two decades, she has served as advisor to institutional transformation initiatives of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), contributing to reforms in peace, security, and governance. She is a former Vice President of the Philippine Sociological Society, where she advanced sociological research and advocacy nationwide, and has also served as President of the Ateneo de Davao University College Faculty Union. Her work bridges academic research, organizational leadership, and grassroots advocacy, underscoring her commitment to institutional accountability and social justice.
DR. HAFIIZH HASHIM
Lecturer, Universiti Brunei Darussalam
Hafiizh Hashim holds a PhD in politics from the University of Bristol, UK. He is a Lecturer in the Academy of Brunei Studies, Universiti Brunei Darussalam. His main area of research focuses on ASEAN, specifically on comparative study of Southeast Asia’s security policy, the nexus between security and economic development, and the international political economy. He was a Visiting Fellow at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy, researching ASEAN-Korea Relations Amidst the Strategic Uncertainties in Geopolitics. He was also a recipient of the Shangri-La Dialogue Young Leadership Programme, where he joined the representatives from all ASEAN Dialogue Partners. Throughout his tenure in UBD, he has also attended numerous workshops and conferences to discuss Brunei’s position and views on foreign policy, security perceptions, and its roles in ASEAN.
HAI-YEN VU
Commercial Director, Apac Expo, Vietnam
Hai Yen Vu is a Commercial Director at Apac Expo, specializing in exhibitions and events industry. She has experience supporting and delivering international exhibitions and conferences, particularly in the defense, security, and related sectors.
HANSLEY JULIANO
Instructor, Department of Political Science, Ateneo de Manila University
Mr. Hansley Juliano serves as Instructor at the Department of Political Science, Ateneo de Manila University. He conducts research on social movements and civil society, issues on Philippine political economy and East Asian politics. He is finishing his doctoral studies at the Graduate School of International Development, Nagoya University, Japan.
DR HENELITO A SEVILLA JR.
Professor, Asian Center, University of the Philippines Diliman
Dr. Henelito A Sevilla, Jr. is a professor of International Relations at the Asian Center, University of the Philippines Diliman. He specializes Philippine external relations and West Asia (Middel East) studies. He has published research works in various national and international peer reviewed journals and has contributed several book chapters in the areas of geopolitics, migration, security and political economy. Dr. Sevilla is regularly consulted by government and media and has presented papers in national and international conferences.
Dr. HONG-KONG NGUYEN
Researcher,Centre for Interdisciplinary Social Research, Phenikaa University
Hong Kong To Nguyen is a researcher at the Centre for Interdisciplinary Social Research, Phenikaa University, and editor at Toan Viet Limited Company in Hanoi. She holds a PhD in Asia Pacific Studies from Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (MEXT Scholar), where her dissertation examined maritime law enforcement and unplanned encounters in the South China Sea in the 2010-2022 period. Her research interests span Vietnam foreign relations, maritime security, South China Sea disputes, Indo-Pacific regional cooperation, and the societal impacts of artificial intelligence. She has contributed to publishing about dozens of articles in the past five years in journals including Marine Policy, Asia Policy, The International Journal of Marine and Coastal Law, and AI & Society. She was a non-resident fellow at Pacific Forum in 2022 and is currently a fellow in the third cohort of YCAPS Maritime GENIE (Governance Expanded Network for Innovation and Education) program. In her current research, she translates qualitative social science data into quantitative metrics using Python and R, providing empirical grounding for complex policy questions. Beyond her geopolitics specialization, she examines dual-use applications of AI in security and defense, and cultural-philosophical dimensions of emerging technologies.
PROF. HU BO
Director, South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative, South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative
Hu Bo is research professor & director of the Center for Maritime Strategy Studies, Peking University, and director of SCSPI. He received his PhD in Politics from the School of International Studies at Peking University and has extensive experience in policy analysis and consulting. His areas of specialization include maritime strategy, international security, and Chinese diplomacy. He has written three books and more than 50 journal articles and book chapters on topics related to China’s maritime strategy and policy. His most recent books published are as follows: China’s Maritime Power in 2049 (China Development Press, 2015), China’s Sea Power in the Post Mahan Era (Ocean Press, 2018), and Chinese Maritime Power in the 21st Century (Routledge, 2019).
JACQUELINE J. ESPENILLA
Senior Fellow, University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea
Assoc. Prof. Jacqueline Espenilla is a Senior Fellow at the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs. She is also the Chaiperson of the Environmental Law Department of the Philippine Judicial Academy.
JADA FRASER
PhD Student, Department of Political Science and International Relations, University of Southern California
Jada Cryslynn Fraser is a PhD student in Political Science and International Relations at the University of Southern California. Her research focuses on international relations, regional security architecture, and alliance politics in Asia, with particular emphasis on the foreign and security policies of Japan. She is the Indo-Pacific Minilaterals Fellow at the Yokosuka Council on Asia Pacific Studies, a member of Pacific Forum’s Young Leaders Program, and a U.S.-Japan Next Generation Fellow. She previously served as Editor-in-Chief of the Georgetown Journal of Asian Affairs and has published in outlets including War on the Rocks, Nikkei Asia, and East Asia Forum. Before beginning her PhD, Jada was an Associate in The Asia Group’s Japan Practice. She previously served as Country Director for Japan in the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, where she worked on information security, cyber, space, and U.S.-Japan minilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. She has also held roles at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, the Reischauer Center for East Asian Studies at Johns Hopkins SAIS, and the Japan Chair at CSIS. Jada holds an M.A. in Asian Studies from Georgetown University and a B.A. in International Relations and Global Studies from the University of Texas at Austin. Born at Yokota Air Base outside Tokyo and raised in Texas, she is proficient in Japanese.
PROF. JAGANNATH PANDA
Head, Stockholm Center for South Asian and Indo-Pacific Affairs, Institute for Security and Development Policy (ISDP), Sweden
Dr. Jagannath Panda is the Head of the Stockholm Center for South Asian and Indo-Pacific Affairs (SCSA-IPA) at the Institute for Security and Development Policy (ISDP), Sweden. Dr. Panda is a Senior Fellow at The Hague Center for Strategic Studies in the Netherlands. As a senior expert on East Asia and Indo-Pacific affairs, Prof. Panda has testified to the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission at the US Congress on ‘China and South Asia’. He is the Series Editor for Routledge Studies on Think Asia. Dr. Panda is named as one of the Strategic Affairs Thinkers of the Next Decade by The Print, and is named as one of the top experts in Global Affairs and Diplomacy from Sweden by Petelgo. He is a Contributing Editor to The National Interest (Washington, DC) and a Columnist for The Diplomat. Dr. Panda is an Advisory Board Member of the BRICS+ Thinking, a London-based think-tank, and an Advisory Board Member of the Central European Institute of Asian Studies (CEIAS), Bratislava.
JANINA SANTOS
Associate Manager, Doublethink Lab
Ms. Janina Santos is the Associate Manager for the Digital Intelligence Team of Doublethink Lab, a Taiwan-based NGO focused on researching malign Chinese influence operations and disinformation campaigns and their impact. In this capacity, she assists in the development of programs and projects involving to address Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference. Ms. Santos has also serves as a resource person on FIMI and FIMI investigation for media organizations, civil society organizations, defense and security officials, and other stakeholders across the Indo-Pacific Region. Recently, she served as a panelist for the Riga StratCom Dialogue 2026, organized by the NATO Strategic Communication Centre for Excellence in Latvia.
JAN UY
Researcher, Philippine Coast Guard
Mr. Jan Uy is a researcher for the Philippine government where he specializes in assessing trends for international and domestic maritime trends in law enforcement and security.
COMMO. JAY TARRIELA
Commander, Philippine Coast Guard - West Philippine Sea Transparency Group
Commodore Jay Tristan Tarriela is currently serving as the Chief of Coast Guard Staff for Human Resource Management (CG-1) and is also the Adviser to the Commandant on Maritime Security Affairs, as well as the Philippine Coast Guard Spokesperson on the West Philippine Sea. He successfully completed his Ph.D. at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) under the GRIPS Global Governance (G-cube) Program in Tokyo as a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) ASEAN Public Policy Leadership scholar. He has participated in various military and coast guard training programs both in his home country and internationally. Dr. Tarriela holds a graduate degree from the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy Graduate School and a Master of Policy Studies from GRIPS and the Japan Coast Guard Academy. He was among the first batch of participants in the Maritime Safety and Security Program jointly launched by both institutions in 2016.Furthermore, Dr. Tarriela was selected as part of the inaugural cohort of the 2021 Pacific Forum US-Philippines’ Next Generation Leaders’ Initiative. Additionally, he has been chosen as a fellow for the 2021 East-West Center US-Philippines Alliance Fellowship in Washington, DC, USA. Dr. Tarriela has authored opinion-editorial articles for renowned publications such as The Diplomat, The National Interest, and Analyzing War. He also serves as a visiting lecturer at the National Defense College of the Philippines, the Philippine Public Safety College, Ateneo De Manila University School of Government, and the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy Graduate School.
PROF. JEFF PAYNE
Professor, Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies
Jeffrey Payne is an Associate Professor at the Near East South Asia (NESA) Center for Strategic Studies. He pilots the Center’s maritime security programming, including its ongoing series devoted to the Indian Ocean Region and wider Indo-Pacific. In addition, he leads engagements on China’s interests throughout the NESA Center area of responsibility. Professor Payne conducts analysis on Chinese foreign policy, Indian Ocean Regional affairs, and maritime security. He is particularly interested in the intersection of maritime security and strategic competition in the Indian Ocean, as well as in how technology and information can assist in furthering security cooperation. His work informs United States Combatant Commands, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and interagency efforts inside the United States government.
DR. JEFFREY ORDANIEL
President & CEO, WPS; Lead Convenor, The Manila Dialogue on the South China Sea
Dr. Jeffrey Ordaniel is President and CEO of WPS Foundation, a Manila-based maritime security research and policy think tank. Concurrently, he is also Associate Professor of International Security Studies at Tokyo International University (TIU) in Japan. He holds a Ph.D. in International Relations and specializes in the study of offshore territorial and maritime entitlement disputes in Asia. His teaching and research revolve around maritime security and ocean governance, ASEAN regionalism, and broadly, U.S. alliances and engagements in the Indo-Pacific. From 2016 to 2019, he was based in Honolulu and was the holder of the endowed Admiral Joe Vasey Fellowship at the Pacific Forum. His current research on maritime security in Asia is funded by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), 2020-2025.
JENAN NAZ
Graduate Student, International Studies Department, Miriam College
Jenan S. Naz is an MA candidate in International Studies with a specialization in Global Politics at Miriam College (formerly Maryknoll), and holds a bachelor's degree in Economics from Bicol University. His research interests lie in domestic politics and decentralization, the construction of power, and the intersection of international relations, geopolitics, and foreign economic policy. As an emerging scholar, he is an active contributor to national policy and academic forums on Philippine and regional affairs.
DR. JEREMY GATDULA
Dean, University of Asia and the Pacific Law School
Jemy Gatdula is a lawyer specializing in international law, constitutional law,and the philosophy of law. He is the Dean of UA&P Law School, as well as Legal Counsel of the University of Asia and the Pacific. He is also an opinions columnist for BusinessWorld, a Non-Resident Fellow of Stratbase ADR Institute, and OfCounsel at Belgica Aranas Baldueza Dela Cruz and Associates.On scholarship from the Cambridge Overseas Trust, Jemy read international law at theUniversity of Cambridge. Upon the invitation of the US State Department, he attended the Study of US Institutes (SUSI) program, focusing on constitutional law and political thought. He received his Doctor of Juridical Science degree from San Beda College, where his dissertation work focused on the natural law, the Philippine Constitution, andthe limits of judicial power.He lectures on international law, international trade law, philosophy of law, and constitutional law for various governmental and academic institutions, including the Philippine Judicial Academy, the National Defense College, Congress, and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines. He has authored, co-authored, or edited books and articles on public international law, international economic law, andnatural law.He continues to work on various issues relating to international law, international trade,national security and the law on armed conflict, and the Constitution.
JEROME MADRID INOC
Senior Economic Development Specialist, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development
Jerome is a Senior Economic Development Specialist under the Governance Staff at the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev). In this role, he executes technical research and evidence-based policy development supporting the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, focusing on justice administration, good governance, and gender mainstreaming. He currently served as a Training and Mobilization Consultant for Philippine Strategic Associates (June-September 2026), supporting capacity-building for the Asian Development Bank Security Operations Center. His career spans roles as a Technical Expert and Project Evaluation Officer at the National Security Council, Policy Specialist at Amador Research Services, and Senior Government Relations Manager at ALPAS Consultancy. Jerome has also served as an academic lecturer at Mapúa University and Colegio de San Juan de Letran.
JOEL NAOKI CHRISTOPH
Research Associate, Institute for International Legal Relations, FernUniversität in Hagen
Joel Naoki Christoph is a Research Associate at the Institute for International Legal Relations, FernUniversität in Hagen. His research covers geoeconomics, technology governance and strategic competition between major powers, with recent work on maritime and information dynamics in the South China Sea. His paper for the SCS Studies Symposium looks at how public evidence affects the divergence between Chinese and Philippine accounts of maritime confrontations since 2023. He contributes to an Indo-Pacific crisis management project supported by the European Leadership Network and the Asia-Pacific Leadership Network. In 2025 and 2026 he was a Fellow at the ERIA School of Government in Jakarta, working on ASEAN regional public goods under strategic competition. He previously worked at the Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy and consulted for the World Bank on energy infrastructure in East Asia. He is a member of the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs. He studied economics at University College London, the Barcelona School of Economics and the European University Institute, with international relations at Tsinghua University.
PROF. JOHN CARLO
Instructor, Department of Political Economy, Polytechnic University of the Philippines
John Carlo Colot, MPA is an Instructor and of the College of Political Science and Public Administration. He is a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship at Polytechnic University of the Philippines- San Pedro Laguna. He earned his Master in Public Administration at PUP Open University System. He is presently pursuing a degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science and De La Salle University- Manila. His research interests includes public administration, law, and gender studies.
JOHN DE LIMA
Instructor, Department of Political Science, Ateneo de Manila University
J. A. de Lima is an Instructor at the Department of Political Science, Ateneo de Manila University, Philippines. He teaches Philippine politics, political theory, and international relations. His main research interests include visual global politics, education policy, and postcolonialism.
JOHN LOUIS B. BENITO
Faculty, Department of International Studies, De La Salle University
Accomplished his Master of Arts in International Studies Major in European Studies Degree at De La Salle University in Manila, Philippines from 2021-2024. Currently he is an early academic, part-time lecturer, and the European Studies Program Coordinator under the Department of International Studies also at De La Salle University. He serves as a guest contributor for The World Financial Review and has written for The Monitor of the Carter Center's China Focus Initiative, Centre for Strategic and International Studies, FACTS Asia, and the Global Policy Journal. For his academic endeavours, he also served as a peer reviewer for a number of Scopus-indexed journals. His published articles, lectures, engagements, and academic research revolve around International Relations, Security Studies, migration, sustainable development, as well as the outer space and Astropolitics. Moving forward, he aims to transition and focus fully on Security Studies, the outer space, and Astropolitics, contributing knowledge and directions in the academe, international organizations, policy-making circles, government institutions, the defense sector, and think-tanks. Currently he is a fellow under the 2026 SQUAD Forum of the Yokosuka Council on Asia Pacific Studies.
JOHN PAUL ZALDARRIAGA
Policy Analyst
John Paul Zaldarriaga is a Filipino businessman and writer for The Manila Times, where he writes on geopolitics, foreign relations and governance
ATTY. JOHN PSALMUEL CHAN
Associate Solicitor, Office of the Solicitor General
Atty. John Psalmuel V. Chan is an Associate Solicitor at the Office of the Solicitor General and a faculty member at the San Sebastian College Recoletos – Manila College of Law and the Notre Dame of Marbel University College of Law, where he teaches Public International Law, Dispute Resolution and Arbitration, and Environmental Law. His practice and research focus on public law, dispute resolution and arbitration, and public international law, with particular interest in the law of the sea. He was a Nippon Foundation Fellow at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, where he presented his research on the military activities exception under Article 298 of UNCLOS before the Tribunal's judges. He also served on the Philippine delegation to the advisory proceedings before the International Court of Justice concerning States' obligations in respect of climate change. Atty. Chan has published legal articles on the West Philippine Sea, and has pursued further studies through the International Foundation for the Law of the Sea Summer Academy (with Distinction), the Yeosu Academy of the Law of the Sea, and the Advanced Courses of the Hague Academy of International Law. He is also the chief legal officer of the Philippine International Law of the Sea Academy and a Global Fellow of the Bangladesh Center for Ocean Law and Policy. He earned his Juris Doctor from San Beda University College of Law and his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, cum laude, from the University of the Philippines Manila.
JOHN ROSALES
Collegiate Instructor, Department of Humanities and Social Sciencesm, De La Salle University
**Jhon Mark Rosales** is a university educator specializing in Political Science, International Studies, and the Social Sciences. He teaches courses in politics, governance, international and regional affairs, and civic education, while also serving as a Service-Learning Mentor at De La Salle University. His academic and professional interests include Philippine politics, political institutions, civic engagement, international relations, and experiential learning.
JOMARI JESUS TAN
Instructor, Department of Political Science, University of Santo Tomas
Jomari Jesus Tan is an instructor at the University of Santo Tomas and a Political Researcher for Religioscope in Fribourg, Switzerland. He received a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Santo Tomas and his M.A. in International Relations from the University of Chicago. Serving as one of the Sean Yu Taiwan Fellows from UChicago, he discussed contemporary Indo-Pacific military and diplomatic strategies with premier Taiwanese universities, policy centers, media networks, and think tanks. He was also a former Graduate Research Assistant for the Chicago Project on Security and Threats, researching American Political Extremism and Suicide Terrorism in collaboration with the Operations Research Center at the US Military Academy at West Point. He was previously a graduate associate for the Chicago Center on Democracy, helping organize events exploring the state of liberal democracies in Latin America and Eastern Europe. His research interests revolve around the role of middle powers in contemporary IR, with a regional focus on Southeast and East Asia. Specifically, he blends elements of Offensive Realism, Rational Choice Theory, and Ontological Security to analyze how states navigate heightened tensions in the region. He also explores Chinese Cognitive Warfare strategies and espionage in both the Philippines and Taiwan; delving into how these states react and respond to targeted campaigns to its populace.
JONA VILLASANTE
Committee Secretary, Philippine Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives
With nearly 25 years of combined experience spanning government and academia, Ms. Jonalyn L. Villasante currently serves as the Committee Secretary of the Committee on Foreign Affairs at the Philippine House of Representatives and a Senior Lecturer in the Department of International Studies at Miriam College. She also holds the position of Executive Director for Strategic Partnerships of the Women’s Alliance for Security and Peace. Ms. Villasante earned a Master of Arts in International Relations and a Master of Diplomacy from the Australian National University. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts, specializing in Speech Communication, from the University of the Philippines. She is a Professional Fellow of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) at the American Legislative Council in Washington, D.C., and the Indo-Pacific Security Fellowship at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Hawaii. She completed specialized courses in regional security, human security, and peacebuilding at Fu Hsing Kang College in Taiwan, the Kautilya Foundation in India, and the United Nations University for Peace in Costa Rica. She has been recently selected as one of the Asia Pacific Leaders 2025-2026 of the prestigious Obama Foundation. Her research interests include Indo-Pacific Security, ASEAN, maritime security in the South China Sea, and Philippine politics and foreign policy.
DR. JONATHAN ELI LIBUT
Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Asian Studies, University of Santo Tomas
Jonathan Eli Libut is currently an Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Asian Studies and Global Governance at the University of Santo Tomas, Philippines. He was recently a Graduate Professional Fellow at the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research, and a Research Fellow in Peace Studies at the Pacific Forum. Jonathan's research interests traverse the field of political risk analysis, crisis management, peacebuilding, and international development politics with a regional focus on Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the European Union.
JOSHUA BERNARD ESPEÑA
Lecturer, Department of Political Science and International Relations, Polytechnic University of the Philippines
Joshua Bernard B. Espeña, MIS, is a Lecturer in the Department of Political Science and International Studies at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. He is also a Non-Resident Fellow for the Defense and Traditional Security Program of the Manila-based International Development and Security Cooperation (IDSC) and a Young Leader at the Hawaii-based Pacific Forum. He formerly served as a Defense Analyst at the Office for Strategic Studies and Strategy Management, Armed Forces of the Philippines.He is currently a Ph.D. student in Political Science at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, specializing in International Relations and Philippine Politics. He holds a Master of International Studies degree from UP Diliman and a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the University of the East–Manila.His research interests broadly focus on strategic studies, particularly at the intersection of joint military exercises, naval diplomacy, defense policy, revolution in military affairs, Philippine strategic affairs, the future of warfare, and wargaming.He has delivered technical lectures and facilitated wargaming activities for various institutions, including the Development Academy of the Philippines, the National Defense College of the Philippines, the Philippine Army, and the Philippine Coast Guard, among others.His research and expert commentary have appeared in The Diplomat, Asian Politics & Policy, the South China Morning Post, Rappler, Deutsche Welle, BusinessWorld Philippines, and the Philippine Daily Inquirer, among others.
ASST. PROF. JR JISON
Assistant Professor, Political Science Program, University of the Philippines Manila
John Raymond Jison currently studies populist politics, constitutional pluralism, and democratic resilience in Southeast Asia. He is an assistant professor of political science at UP Manila, previously heading the Division of Political Science at UP Los Baños and serving as a research fellow at the University of Oslo, Norway. He holds a master’s and a Hungarian diploma in comparative political science from Central European University, Hungary, and a BA (magna cum laude) in political science from UP Manila.
JULES EDAR BALLARAN
ASEAN Trade Intern, British Embassy in Manila
Julienne "Jules" Edar Ballaran is a climate change advocate, photographer, and a marketing & publicity creative. She completed her secondary education in Portland, Oregon, and later pursued Politics, Philosophy, and Economics with a specialization in International Affairs in New York City. She completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Diplomacy and International Relations at Ateneo de Manila University in 2026. Jules is a photographer and has gained professional experience in marketing and publicity. She is particularly interested in Climate Diplomacy and Public Diplomacy.
KATARZYNA SYPIEŃ
Lecturer, PhD candidate, Jagiellonian University
Katarzyna Sypień is a PhD candidate in Security Studies at the Doctoral School in the Social Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Kraków. Her research examines how global environmental and climate-related processes are politically translated into public policies in Southeast Asia, with particular attention to global governance, non-traditional security, climate adaptation, food security, fisheries governance and the political relevance of polar-region processes for Asian countries. She holds an M.A. in International Relations and B.A. degrees in International Relations and Intellectual Property and New Media from the Jagiellonian University. She conducted a four-month NAWA-funded research stay at VNU University of Social Sciences and Humanities in Hanoi, where she carried out expert interviews and source searches related to climate adaptation and environmental governance in Vietnam. Her research has been presented at international conferences including IPSA, ACUNS, UACES, CEPSA, IAFOR, Global Social Nexus and IPSA RC44/RC52 events. She is a member of the International Political Science Association (IPSA), the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS), the University Association for Contemporary European Studies (UACES) and the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (APECS). Her broader academic interests include Southeast Asian regional politics, environmental security, climate-risk translation, global governance and the politics of adaptation in the Global South.
KEVIN MADDELA
Social Science Mentor, Collegiate Lecturer, De La Salle University
Kevin John A. Maddela, LPT, MA, MPA, is currently serving as a full-time faculty member of De La Salle University – The Academy (Philippines). He is a PhD Candidate in Development Studies at the same university with research interests in Public Policy, International Relations, and Social Science Education.
KIRK PATRICK S. PABLO
Weapons Research Associate, Institutional Shareholder Services Philippines Inc.
Mr. Kirk Patrick S. Pablo is an ESG weapons research professional with almost half a decade of experience as a civilian analyst in the Philippine defense sector. He specializes in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, Combat Aircraft Systems, as well as Small Arms and Light Weapons.
KRITZMAN G. CABALLERO
Chief for International Cooperation, Philippine Space Agency
Mr. Caballero is Chief for Space International Cooperation at the Philippine Space Agency under the Office of the President. He leads the country’s international space diplomacy initiatives, advancing Philippine interests in multilateral and bilateral engagements. In this role, he represents the Philippines in global and regional bodies such as the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space and also as a representative to the ASEAN Subcommittee on Earth, Ocean and Space Science under the ASEAN Economic Community Pillar. His professional background is anchored in international security and foreign policy. Prior to joining the space sector, he served in various roles as consultant for policy research, review and formulation and senior policy research officer at the Presidential Commission on Visiting Forces and previously held research and advisory roles at the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He is an active member of the academic community, teaching at institutions including Ateneo de Manila University, Asian Institute of Management, University of Asia and the Pacific, Philippine Women’s University, De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, and the National Defense College of the Philippines. He has served as a visiting lecturer at Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu in Romania and is a contributor to the ASEAN Centre at MGIMO University in Russia. He holds an MA in Political Economy with Specialization in IR and Development from UA&P. His research interests cover EU and ASEAN regionalism, Asia–Europe relations, Eastern European and Russian politics, foreign policy, geopolitics, international security, and space diplomacy.
LE HARVEY D. SAN ANTONIO
OIC Committee Secretary, Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea, House of Representatives
Mr. Le Harvey D. San Antonio is the OIC Committee Secretary of the Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea concurrent with his job as Supervising Legislative Committee Researcher in the Committee of National Defense and Security in the House of Representatives (HRep). He is in-charge of providing technical expertise in the deliberation of proposed legislative measures related to the West Philippine Sea and the National Defense and Security of the Philippines. He has a Master’s degree in National Security Administration.
DR LOWELL BAUTISTA
Associate Professor, School of Law, Western Sydney University
Dr Lowell Bautista is an Associate Professor at Western Sydney University School of Law, Australia. He holds a BA in Political Science and an LLB from the University of the Philippines, an LLM from Dalhousie University, Canada, and a PhD in Law from the University of Wollongong, Australia. He is an internationally recognised scholar of public international law and the law of the sea, with particular expertise on the South China Sea. His research has made significant contributions to understanding the legal dimensions of maritime disputes, historic rights claims, freedom of navigation, maritime security, ocean governance, and the interpretation and implementation of UNCLOS in the Indo-Pacific. Lowell has written extensively on the South China Sea, including the legal significance of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award, China’s rejection of the ruling, the Philippines’ maritime claims, and the role of domestic maritime legislation in consolidating international legal norms. His work sits at the intersection of international law, geopolitics, and state practice, and is regularly cited by scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. He is a frequent speaker at international conferences and policy dialogues and regularly provides expert commentary on South China Sea developments, Philippine foreign policy, and Indo-Pacific maritime security. He also serves as an Associate Editor of Marine Policy and remains actively engaged in international research networks on law of the sea, maritime affairs, and ocean governance.
LUCAS MYERS
Assistant Director, China and U.S. Program, University of Maryland, College Park
Lucas Myers is an assistant director at the China and U.S. Program (CUSP) in the School of Public Policy at the University of Maryland. Before joining the University of Maryland, Myers was a senior associate for Southeast Asia in the Wilson Center’s Indo-Pacific Program and has also worked on geopolitical risk in the private sector and in international development. Professionally proficient in Mandarin Chinese, his research interests include Southeast Asian geopolitics and Chinese foreign policy. In 2023, Myers was selected as an Emerging Quad Think Tank Leader, an initiative of the U.S. State Department’s Leaders Lead on Demand program. He is also a non-resident visiting scholar with George Washington University's Sigur Center. Myers' writing and commentary have appeared in Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, New York Times, War on the Rocks, and other outlets. He received his MA from Georgetown University’s Security Studies Program and his BA in political science and Chinese language & culture from Macalester College.
LUCIO B. PITLO III
Member, Board of Directors, Philippine Association for Chinese Studies
Lucio Blanco Pitlo III is a foreign policy and security analyst. He was the President of the Philippine Association for Chinese Studies and a Research Fellow at the Asia-Pacific Pathways to Progress Foundation. He was also a Lecturer at the Chinese Studies Program of Ateneo de Manila University. He was also a technical assistant with the National Coast Watch Council Secretariat. He also served as a research associate and consultant for several projects on maritime issues and Philippine foreign policy. He obtained his Master of Laws from Peking University in Beijing. His commentaries and analyses on security, foreign policy, geopolitics, and Southeast Asian affairs appear in the South China Morning Post, China-US Focus, and Asia Times, among others. He is a regular participant in numerous academic and Track 2 dialogues on security, foreign affairs, geopolitics and geoeconomics in ASEAN countries and China.
COMMO. LUMA-ANG
Director, Hydrography Branch, NAMRIA
Commodore Carter Luma-ang is the Director of the Hydrography Branch of NAMRIA. He is the official representative of the country to the International Hydrographic Organization and the East Asia Hydrographic Commission.
MUHAMMAD WAFFAA KHARISMA
Researcher, Department of International Relations, CSIS Indonesia
Muhammad Waffaa Kharisma is a Researcher at Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Jakarta, Indonesia. With CSIS, he has worked on a range of research topics on the intersection between geopolitics, sovereignty, and humanitarian issues, including the security dynamics of the Indo-Pacific, the role of ASEAN in regional geopolitics and humanitarian issues, Indonesian foreign policy, and Indonesia’s maritime security. He graduated Master of Science from University of Bristol, United Kingdom.
PROF. MA. TERESA GUANZON-DE GUZMAN
Dean and Professor, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines, Manila,
Ma. Teresa G. De Guzman, PhD, is an anthropologist, archaeologist, forensic science practitioner, and academic leader serving as Professor 7 and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila. She earned her PhD and Master’s degree in Anthropology from the University of the Philippines Diliman following undergraduate training in Linguistics. She is also an HRAF Global Scholar affiliated with the Human Relations Area Files at Yale University, advancing cross-cultural and interdisciplinary scholarship.Dr. De Guzman received specialized training in forensic science at the Sherlock Institute of Forensic Science in India and completed the Health in Detention Short Course at the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).Her interdisciplinary work spans anthropology, archaeology, forensic and behavioral sciences, Indigenous and local knowledge systems, cultural heritage, public health, and disaster response. She has led and participated in archaeological and ethnographic investigations, Cultural Heritage and archaeological impact assessments, disaster victim identification, forensic investigations, and social and environmental assessments for development projects in the Philippines.An active scholar and international speaker, Dr. De Guzman has delivered keynote and plenary presentations on anthropology, forensic science, cultural heritage, disaster resilience, and Indigenous knowledge. Her research examines the intersections of culture, health, environment, heritage, and human well-being. Her work advocates interdisciplinary and community-engaged approaches that recognize cultural knowledge, human dignity, and local voices as essential to sustainable development and socially responsive policy.
MARGERY B. BAUTISTA
Technical Consultant, Climate Resilience Specialist and Coach, EU PH Green Economy Partnership and Energy Evaluation Asia Pacific
Margery Bautista is an independent consultant and technical advisor specializing in sustainability, ESG, and international development. She has held senior roles in government and consultancy, advising on policy reform, program design, and stakeholder engagement across Asia. Her collaborations include working with EU-PH Green Economy Partnership with UNDP, Independent Evaluation Office of UNFPA, Australia Awards, and Asia Group Advisors, focusing on climate resilience, renewable energy, and inclusive economic growth. Margery holds a Master’s degree in Development Policy from De La Salle University and is a Certified Professional Manager under IFPM London. Her academic foundation in policy and governance is complemented by practical expertise in project and operations management, market insights and business analysis, and digital tools for monitoring and evaluation. She has done researches in maritime and coastal community resilience, having developed frameworks that integrate ESG principles, disaster preparedness, and livelihood protection in vulnerable coastal zones. Her work emphasizes the intersection of environmental and social defense, community adaptation, and economic co‑benefits—ensuring that resilience strategies safeguard both ecosystems and local industries. She is currently conducting research on initiatives addressing post‑harvest fish losses, circular agribusiness, and renewable energy integration in host communities exposed to climate and disaster risks. Margery is an active member of networks such as Asia Society, EvalForEath, Energy Evaluation Asia Pacific, and inDev Collective Community of Practice (Australia). At the Manila Dialogue, she brings a perspective shaped by both policy and practice—emphasizing collaborative governance, maritime sustainability, and confidence‑building measures to advance a rules‑based maritime order.
MARIAN F. GONGORA
Faculty, Far Eastern University
Ms. Marian Gongora is a faculty member of the Department of International Studies at Far Eastern University, Manila where she handled professional courses, such as Geography and Global Challenges. She obtained her Master of Asian Studies degree at the Asian Center, University of the Philippines – Diliman. She previously worked for the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines and on research projects at the UP Asian Center and UP Korea Research Center. Her research interests include Asia (Northeast Asia: North and South Korea politics, security, culture, society), women (issues, security, development), non-traditional security (human security, migration, transnational crimes, climate change), creative and cultural industries, popular culture, media and public diplomacy, and artificial intelligence.
MARK ESCAY
Business Development & Strategic Partnerships Lead, PSA Intelligence
Mark is a strategic government affairs and public policy leader with 12+ years of experience advising national agencies, multinational firms, and high-growth organizations. Currently, he acts as both a Regulatory Affairs Advisor and concurrently leads Business Development for PSA Intelligence, the long-standing back office intelligence source for multiple Fortune 500 corporate security and enterprise risk management teams that have operations in the Philippines and the broader APAC region. Prior joining PSA Intelligence, Mark had a decorated career as a counterintelligence officer working with the Philippine government, specializing in Malign Influence and Foreign Interference activities conducted by the PRC. He consistently ranked in the top 5 of his class during both his Intelligence Officer and Counterintelligence Officer courses. He has received specialized security trainings from the Australian International Intelligence Training Program; US Office of the Director for National Intelligence; UN Office of Counter Terrorism; US Department of Homeland Security; and King's College London's counter proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction.
ASG. MARKK L. PERETE
Assistant Solicitor General, Office of the Solicitor General
ASG Markk Perete is a member of the Law of the Sea Committee of the Office fo the Solicitor General. In such capacity, he provides advisory, litigation and other legal services to the Republic in maritime and law of the sea concerns.
MASAKAZU TAKAMORI
CEO, Japan Nexus Intelligence Inc.
Masakazu Takamori is the Founder, President and CEO of Japan Nexus Intelligence (JNI), a Tokyo-based intelligence and strategic advisory firm. He specializes in foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), cognitive warfare, information risk, and strategic communications. JNI uses open-source intelligence to identify hostile narratives and influence operations, assess their risks, and help governments and organizations develop practical responses. Takamori’s work examines how information operations can shape public perceptions, weaken trust in institutions, and affect responses to geopolitical coercion, including in the Indo-Pacific. Before founding JNI, he led strategic planning and integrated communications initiatives at Dentsu, advising public- and private-sector organizations on crisis management and public affairs. He engages with policymakers, researchers, and security practitioners across the region on information integrity and resilience. At the Manila Dialogue, he brings a Japanese perspective on the information dimension of regional security and the challenges of countering malign influence while maintaining public trust.
MATHYS HOUCKE
Political Advisor to the Defense Attaché, French Embassy
Mathys Houcke work as a Political Advisor to the French Defense Attaché Ofiicie in Manila since septembre 2026. Mathys Houcke hold a Master's degree in International relations from Sorbonne University in Paris.
MATTEO PIASENTINI
Senior Lecturer, Department of Political Science, University of the Philippines Diliman
Matteo Piasentini is a PhD candidate in Political Science at the University of the Philippines Diliman, Department of Political Science, where he also serves as a Senior Lecturer. He is the China and Indo-Pacific Program Coordinator at the Center for Geopolitical Studies (Geopolitica.info), a non-resident Vasey Fellow at Pacific Forum, and an external analyst for FACTS Asia. His primary research focuses on Indo-Pacific minilateralism from the perspective of smaller Southeast Asian states and the agency of less powerful states in shaping regional security. Additionally, his expertise includes Philippine foreign policy, South China Sea security, and European engagement with Southeast Asia. He has also contributed to scholarly debates on technology and minilateralism. He is the co-author of two academic papers on minilateralism and participates in a multinational scholarly working group on the subject. Furthermore, he has authored book chapters and papers on Philippine foreign policy and Italy's economic engagement with the Indo-Pacific. Finally, he is active in writing policy editorials for outlets such as ISEAS Commentaries, EUI Cadmus, Geopolitica.info, FACTS Asia, Eastwest, and the Australian Institute for International Affairs. He also participated as a speaker and contributor for a report on the Philippines' middle-power engagements for Torino World Affairs Institute.
PROF. MINNA YU
Associate Professor, Law School, Ocean University of China
Dr. Minna YU is an Associate Professor at the School of Law, Ocean University of China (OUC), and a researcher at the South China Sea Probing Initiative (SCSPI). She holds a Ph.D. in Public International Law from Wuhan University, China, and a master’s degree in Maritime Law from Dalian Maritime University. Her research focuses on the law of the sea, with particular interests in international fisheries law and policy, BBNJ agreement, international dispute resolution, and subsea critical infrastructure. She has published widely in the fields of international law and the law of the sea, including articles in journals such as the Chinese Journal of International Law. She has also contributed to several books as an author and editor and has served as principal investigator for several research projects.
NAN HAO
International Geneva Peace Fellow, Interpeace & Geneva Graduate Institute
Hao Nan is a Geneva-based policy researcher with the Geneva Graduate Institute and Interpeace. His research focuses on nuclear security and geopolitics, strategic competition, and the strategic agency of middle powers, with particular interests in ballistic missile proliferation, nuclear restraint and hedging, and security dynamics across East Asia and the Middle East. He previously worked at the East Asian intergovernmental institutions, including the Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat (for China, Japan and ROK) in Seoul and the ASEAN-China Centre in Beijing, and strategic studies institutions such as the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research in Abu Dhabi and the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi. His academic training spans public policy, international law, and Middle Eastern studies.
NEIL PANCHO
Assistant Professor V, Department of Political Science and History, Ateneo de Davao University
He is a faculty member of the Department of Political Science and History of Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) in the Philippines. He teaches Philippine Political Parties and Social Movements, and Philippine Public Administration. He is a former member of the Board of Trustees of the Philippine Political Science Association (PPSA), 2017-2019. His commitment to the practical application of his academic knowledge is evident in his fieldwork, which took him to Mindanao, He conducted validation work for “Outstanding Filipinos” of the Metrobank Foundation. A program dedicated to Filipino nationals who excel in public service. His previous research focused on women in violent extremist (VE) groups, covering formerly volatile places of the southern Philippines in 2020. His research contributions are also incorporated into the book, “Electoral Dynamics in the Philippines: Money Politics, Patronage and Clientelism at the Grassroots,” published by NUS Press in Singapore in 2019. His latest article on CSOs was published in 2022 by Ateneo de Manila University Press, “Transfiguring Mindanao: A Mindanao Reader”. The voluminous, multi-authored book won the Best Book in Social Sciences award in 2023. In July of 2025, the Institute for East Asian Studies, Sogang University, Seoul, South Korea, invited him to deliver a paper, “A Capo Rules a City: A Case of Rodrigo Duterte.” His latest project is on Surigao gold, an archaeological find accidentally discovered in 1981, and a portion of the finds is available at the Ayala Museum and Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas Museum.
DR. NICOMEDES ALVIAR
Program Director, Public Governance and Leadership, School of Politics and Governance, University of Asia and the Pacific
Dr. Nicomedes Alviar is currently the Program Director of Public Governance and Leadership, School of Politics and Governance at the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P). Prior to this position, he was Dean of the School of Politics and Governance for 9 years (2017-2026). He obtained his PhD Political Science from the University of the Philippines Diliman, and MA Political Science and AB Asian Studies from the University of Santo Tomas. He is a member of the International Political Science Association (IPSA), Association for Asian Studies (AAS), Philippine Council for Foreign Relations (PCFR), Foundation for Economic Freedom (FEF), National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP), Philippine Political Science Association (PPSA), Philippine International Studies Association (PHISO), Galing Pook Foundation, WR Numero Research Scientific Committee. He is a recipient of the 2023 Distinguished Alumnus Award of the College of Social Science and Philosophy, University of the Philippines Diliman, and the 2024 Distinguished Thomasian Alumnus Award, University of Santo Tomas.
NITIN ANANT
Head & Editor-in-Chief, StratNewsGlobal.com
Nitin A. Gokhale is a globally recognized strategic affairs analyst, communications specialist, and prominent media entrepreneur. With a career spanning over 42 years across print, broadcast, and digital media, he has reported from the front lines of major conflicts, including the Kargil War and Sri Lanka’s Eelam War IV. Between 1983 and 2006, he lived in and reported extensively on insurgencies in India’s North-East, Kashmir, and the Naxal heartland for leading outlets like Outlook and NDTV.As a media entrepreneur, Gokhale founded the BharatShakti group in 2015 and currently runs three niche digital platforms: BharatShakti, StratNewsGlobal, and StratNewsGlobal.tech. He specializes in strategic forecasting, risk assessments, and futuristic predictions tailored for businesses operating in South and South-East Asia.An alumnus of the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Hawaii, Gokhale is highly respected in military circles. He is a popular visiting faculty member at India’s premier defense institutions, including the National Defence College, the Defence Services Staff College, the three war colleges, the College of Defence Management, and the Intelligence Bureau’s school, where he has taught communication and strategy to generations of military officers.Gokhale has authored more than a dozen books on military history, insurgencies, and wars, including acclaimed biographies of R&AW founder R.N. Kao and former Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. Today, he regularly writes, lectures, and analyzes security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, participating in major international seminars across the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Gokhale founded BharatShakti group, a media-cum-research organisation in 2015
COL. NIZAM BIN CHE ANI
Director of Training, Malaysian Armed Forces
Col Nizam is former fighter pilot flew F/A-18D aircraft with Royal Malaysian Air Force. Served as Director of Strategic Planning at Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) HQ and Director of Operation at Royal Malaysian Air Force Operational and Strategic think tank. Currently serve as Director of Training at MAF Training Education and Doctrine HQ at Putrajaya.
NGUYEN-CAO VIET-HUNG
Research Associate, Faculty of Political Science and Economics, Waseda University
Viet Hung Nguyen Cao is a Research Associate at the Faculty of Political Science and Economics, Waseda University. His research examines how publics in East and Southeast Asia respond to adversarial signaling, fait accompli coercion, and alliance commitments, drawing on survey experiments fielded across Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Taiwan. His works have been published in Journal of Conflict Resolution and Japanese Journal of Political Science. His current research interests include territorial disputes, public opinions in Southeast Asia and authoritarian politics.
PAUL CHAMBERLAIN
Fellow, Conference of Defence Associations Institute Canada, Australian National University
Paul Chamberlain is an Indo-Pacific defence policy and maritime security professional with over 15 years of experience in defence, intelligence, and policy roles in the Canadian government. He is a PhD candidate at the Australian National University’s Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, within the Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs. His research examines the role of sea power as an instrument of statecraft in the contemporary Indo-Pacific region, with case studies of Australia, Japan, and Singapore. He holds a Master of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Social Sciences with First Class Honours in Politics. He is the Research Fellow for Indo-Pacific Sea Power at the Yokosuka Council on Asia Pacific Studies (YCAPS). In 2025–2026, he was a Visiting Research Fellow at the National Institute for Defense Studies (NIDS) in Tokyo, Japan. Chamberlain has held a range of defence and security-related postings across the Government of Canada. As the first civilian Policy Advisor to the Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, he provided strategic counsel to senior leadership, developed policy positions on domestic and international issues, and sharpened the alignment of the navy’s global engagement activities with Canadian strategic priorities. Before starting his doctoral studies, Chamberlain led Canada’s defence relations with Southeast Asian states and ASEAN in the Directorate of Indo-Pacific Policy at the Department of National Defence. Other positions include at the Directorate of Strategic Analysis in DND, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, and the Privy Council Office.
PATRICK ZOLL
Correspondent for Geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific, Neue Zurcher Zeitung
Patrick Zoll is the Correspondent for Geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific for the Neue Zurcher Zeitung (NZZ), a newspaper of reference from Switzerland. After postings in Japan and Australia he now covers security and political affairs in the region from Taiwan. He is also a Non-Resident Research Fellow at the Korea Institute for Maritime Strategy (KIMS).
PHIL ALEGRE
Visiting Fellow, Georgetown University
Mr. Phil Alegre is a 2026 Visiting Fellow at Georgetown University's Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service and a recipient of the 2025-2026 Fulbright US-ASEAN Visiting Scholars Initiative Award. He was a 2025-2026 Non-Resident Vasey Fellow at the Hawaii-based think tank Pacific Forum. Mr. Alegre is a graduate of the Daniel K. Inouye Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies in the United States and the Yeosu Academy on the Law of the Sea by the Korea Maritime Institute. He has also completed the Security Sector Governance and Reform Program of the Folke Bernadotte Academy of Sweden. Mr. Alegre's research interests lie at the intersection of geopolitics, foreign and defense policy, great power competition, and maritime security — particularly the Philippines’ role in upholding sovereignty, defending its maritime entitlements, and navigating strategic alliances.
PRINCE LOUIE MAMHOT
Legislative Staff Officer, Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department, Philippine House of Representatives
Prince Louie Baylon Mamhot has been aLegislative Staff Officer of the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department of the House of Representatives since 2021. He is presently tasked with policy research on strategic fiscal issues, developmentof the CPBRD fiscal database, research automation, analysis of tariffs and customs duties, and crafting of the Agency Budget Notes of the Department of National Defense.
PRINCESS NEPOMUCENO
Defense Researcher, Department of National Defense (DND)
Princess Doreen Nepomuceno AMNIS is a defense researcher at the Philippines’ Department of National Defense (DND), holding a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Her research has been showcased in the United Nations Office in Geneva during the UNIDIR Global Conference on AI, Security and Ethics 2026, and presented in Bucharest at the EU BlueRights' Human Rights at Risk: Organised Crime at Sea and Across Borders (OC-SAB) Conference. Her articles were also published in the quarterly Air Force Review. In an international setting, she is active in two EU COST Actions: Science in Diplomacy, and BlueRights network where she assesses how human rights can be enjoyed by people at sea from a legal perspective. She is also a student member of the London-based, The Nautical Institute.
DR. RAHMAN YAACOB
Research Fellow, Rabdan Security & Defence Institute
Dr Abdul Rahman Yaacob is a Research Fellow at the Rabdan Security & Defence Institute (RSDI), Non-Resident Senior Fellow at Verve Research, and Non-Resident Fellow at the Korea Institute for Maritime Strategy (KIMS). He is also an Academic Advisor to the ASEAN-Australia Defence Postgraduate Scholarship Program (AADPSP) at the Strategic & Defence Studies Centre, The Australian National University. He previously served as a Research Fellow in the Southeast Asia Program at the Lowy Institute in Sydney and as a Teaching Fellow at the Australian Command & Staff Course at the Australian War College.His expertise spans small-state security, maritime security, defence policy, military modernisation, and Southeast Asia’s strategic relations with major powers. He holds a PhD from the Australian National University’s National Security College, where his research examined Singapore’s defence policy and ASEAN during the Cold War. In 2024, he became the first researcher to visit Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base. In June 2026, he co-organised the “Coordinating in Crisis” Indo-Pacific Security Workshop at the Lowy Institute, bringing together regional and external partners to examine threat perceptions and ASEAN’s preparedness to respond to regional crises.Before academia, he spent 18 years in the Singapore government. He held various command and staff postings in security-related areas and received several awards.Before academia, he spent 18 years in the Singapore government. He held various command and staff postings in security-related areas and received several awards.
PROF. RENZO GUINTO
Associate Professor of Global and Planetary Health, SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, NUS
Renzo R. Guinto, MD DrPH is Associate Professor of Global and Planetary Health at the SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore. One of the world’s pioneers of the new field of planetary health, he works on diverse aspects of the climate and health nexus, as well as other health topics such as global health governance and diplomacy, universal health care and health systems, pandemic preparedness and health security, and migrant health. Renzo is a member of the Philippine Climate Change Commission’s National Panel of Technical Experts; World Health Organization’s Technical Advisory Group on climate and health ethics; and US National Academy of Medicine’s Committee for Transformative Action for Climate and Health. He also serves as chair of the Lancet Intergenerational Commission on the Future of Health in ASEAN. Renzo obtained his DrPH from Harvard University and MD from the University of the Philippines Manila. He has traveled to and lectured in nearly 80 countries and 100 universities across the world; and published more than 300 reports and articles in scientific journals, books, and popular media. In 2020, Renzo was included by Tatler Magazine in its Gen.T List of 400 leaders of tomorrow who are shaping Asia’s future. In 2022, he was named one of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of the Philippines for pioneering the field of planetary health in the country. In 2025, he was awarded the inaugural Kiyoshi Kurokawa Award for “extraordinary contributions to health policy and innovation in the Asia-Pacific region.”
RALPH R. FRONDOZA
Head of Strategic Risk and Geoeconomics, CirroLytix Reserach Services
Ralph Romulus Frondoza advises senior leaders and policymakers on turning geopolitical and technology risk into strategic advantage, safeguarding revenue, reputation, and public trust in an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific. He is Head of Strategic Risk and Geo-economics at CirroLytix, where he assesses the geopolitical, economic, and enterprise-risk implications of AI and emerging technologies, and contributes expert perspectives to Congressional technical working groups on AI and online child safety. He is a rising scholar-practitioner in the security and development field, and a Partner at Asia Collective International Forums, where he has convened 200+ policymakers, enterprises, and innovators across APAC to shape cyber and security strategy. His work bridges research and practice across geoeconomics, transnational security, and emerging technology policy. With over 15 years in corporate strategy and risk advisory, Ralph has delivered resilience programs enabling 4–8 month geographic expansions and protecting $10.8–15M in ARR for enterprise clients. His research on geoeconomic risk and technology policy has been featured in outlets including Rappler, Businessworld, Philippine Daily Inquirer, and Bilyonaryo. He holds a Master's in International Studies from the University of the Philippines Diliman, pursues advanced scholarship in geoeconomics and technology policy, and advocates for child protection and cross-border cooperation against cybercrime and trafficking.
CAPT.RAUL ‘PETE’ PEDROZO (RET., USN)
Howard S. Levie Chair on the Law of Armed Conflict, U.S. Naval War College
Professor Raul (Pete) Pedrozo (Captain, USN, Ret.) is the Howard S. Levie Chair on the Law of Armed Conflict, U.S. Naval War College, Stockton Center for International Law. Prior to his retirement from active duty after 34 years of service, he held numerous positions advising senior military and civilian Defense officials, including as Special Assistant to the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy and senior legal advisor to Commander, U.S. Pacific Command. Professor Pedrozo has lectured extensively at military and civilian academic institutions in the United States and abroad and participated in numerous multilateral negotiations, including at the International Maritime Organization and the Transnational Organized Crime Convention. CAPT Pedrozo is the co-author to International Maritime Security Law (2013), The Free Sea: The American Fight for Freedom of Navigation (2018), Emerging Technology and the Law of the Sea (2022), The Newport Manual on the Law of Naval Warfare (lst & 2nd eds.) (2023 & 2025), and the Annotated Supplement to the Commander’s Handbook on the Law of Naval Operations (2024). He has an LLM (International & Comparative Law), Georgetown University Law Center and JD (Law), The Ohio State University College of Law.
RAY POWELL
Director, Sealight-Gordian Knot Center, Stanford University
Ray Powell is the Founder and Executive Director of the SeaLight Foundation, a California-based maritime transparency non-profit launched in 2023 with the help of Stanford University’s Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation. SeaLight uses satellite imagery, commercially available vessel-tracking data and open-source research to expose maritime gray-zone activity, particularly in East Asia. Ray is also co-host, with former senior U.S. diplomat Jim Carouso, of the weekly podcast Why Should We Care About the Indo-Pacific? Drawing on their decades of military and diplomatic experience, they examine the geopolitical, economic, security, and cultural forces shaping the Indo-Pacific through conversations with regional experts and practitioners. The podcast offers a practical lens on why developments in this pivotal region matter to audiences beyond it. A Stratbase Albert del Rosario Institute Non-Resident Fellow, Ray co-authored the study Game Changer: The Philippines’ Assertive Transparency Campaign—How the Philippines Rewrote the Counter Gray Zone Playbook in 2023. The study examines how Manila uses timely, credible public information to build national resilience and international support, while also raising reputational costs for gray-zone aggressors. A retired U.S. Air Force officer, Ray served for 35 years, including assignments in the Philippines, Japan, Germany and Qatar; combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan; and three tours in the Pentagon. He served as U.S. Air Attaché to Vietnam from 2013 to 2016 and as Senior Defense Official/Defense Attaché to Australia from 2017 to 2020. Ray was a 2021 Fellow at Stanford’s Distinguished Careers Institute.
REN YCASIANO
Committee Secretary, House of Representatives of the Philippines
Currently serves as Committee Secretary of the House Committee on Local Government, supporting its legislative work on local governance and decentralization. For nearly 15 years, served with the Committee on Foreign Affairs, gaining extensive experience in foreign policy, international relations, and the legislative aspects of the country’s external affairs. Also served as Committee Secretary of the Special Committee on Strategic Intelligence and later the Special Committee on West Philippine Sea (WPS). While now focused on the Committee on Local Government, continues to share this experience by advising and supporting the team handling the Special Committee on WPS. After nearly two decades in legislative service, continues to value the opportunity to learn, serve, and work with colleagues toward meaningful public service.
DR. ROB HAYDEN
Executive Director, Asian Institute of Maritime Studies
Robert Frederick Hayden Jr., Ph.D., CWM is a distinguished higher education leader, internationalization strategist, and Certified World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) Mentor, recognized for his expertise in higher education leadership, institutional innovation, quality assurance, global rankings, strategic planning, and international collaboration. With an accomplished career spanning academic leadership, institutional management, policy development, and global engagement, he has consistently championed transformative initiatives that enhance institutional excellence and global competitiveness.He currently serves as the Founding President of the World University Network for Innovation-Leaders (WUNI-L), a network under the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), where he leads international initiatives that promote innovation, collaborative leadership, and knowledge exchange among higher education institutions worldwide.Dr. Hayden is also the Executive Director and Dean of the School of Heritage Education at the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS), where he provides strategic leadership in academic development, internationalization, institutional planning, quality assurance, global university rankings, and innovation. He has been instrumental in expanding international partnerships, strengthening institutional competitiveness, advancing evidence-based planning, and enhancing AIMS' global visibility through initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), innovation ecosystems, and international benchmarking.
ATTY. ROBERT BELTRAN
Attorney, Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines
Robert Beltran is a Filipino lawyer who is currently working as an Attorney for the Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines. He got his Master of Laws (LLM) in National Security Law & Cybersecurity Law from George Washington University Law School. Prior to that, Robert got his Juris Doctor from San Beda College Alabang School of Law, and his Bachelor of Arts in Consular & Diplomatic Affairs from De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde. Before working for the government, Robert worked for a Makati-based law firm primarily practicing civil, criminal, and commercial litigation. In 2021, Robert’s article entitled “Termination of the R.P. - U.S. Visiting Forces Agreement: It’s Legality and Impact on the Maritime Dispute in the West Philippine Sea” was published by the University of Santo Tomas Law Review. Robert may be a lawyer by profession but his true passions are history and geopolitics.
DR. RONALD M. CASTILLO
Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, University of Santo Tomas
Dr. Ronald M. Castillo is a product of educational diplomacy between Taiwan and the Philippines, through which he was able to pursue his PhD in Asia Pacific Studies at National Chengchi University. He specializes in social network analysis as well as in the analysis of political communication. He currently teaches research analysis and a professional elective course on diplomacy in Asia.
ATTY. ROWENA JOYCE
OIC Director, Legal Services, Department of Energy
Atty. Delos Santos serves as the OIC Director of the Legal Services. Prior to her designation as OIC Director, she served as the Chief of the Upstream Conventional Energy Legal Service Division. In such capacity, she was involved in the negotiations, award and administration of petroleum service contracts, including those located in the West Philippine Sea.
ROY ORTEGA
Chief Fishing Regulations Officer, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
He is the Chief of the Fisheries Resources Management Division (FRMD) of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) - Central Office. On concurrent capacity, Mr. Ortega is the Sub-component Lead of FISHCRRM 1.3 of the Fisheries Coastal Resiliency Project (FishCORE), a six-year WorldBank funded project being implemented by DA-BFAR. Roy completed B.S. Fisheries from Central Luzon State University (2000), a graduate of Master of Science in Aquaculture (2004), from consortium program of Ghent University (Belgium)-Wageningen University (Netherlands) and a Master of Public Administration (2025). He has participated in various DA-BFAR foreign missions in USA, EU, China, Thailand, Viet Nam, South Korea, Myanmar, Chile, ASEAN meetings and UN-Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) both at its Regional Office and Headquarters. Mr. Ortega has successfully managed several completed technical cooperation projects funded by UN-FAO, including CSR-supported livelihood projects and research projects with local universities. To date, Roy has nine publications in a form of peer-reviewed international & local journals, conference papers, technical guides on aquaculture, including ISBN -coded 11 series of technical bulletin on managing impact of weather systems on aquaculture operations, and one pending patent application. Roy is happily married to Jhuny Lei Abalos, a practicing CPA and residing in live in Taguig City with three Aspin dogs (Chubby, Mio and Kimmy).
RYAN CLAFFEY
Research Assistant, Indo-Pacific Security Program, Center for a New American Security (CNAS)
Ryan Claffey is a research assistant for the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS). His research focuses on U.S. relations and security strategy in East and Southeast Asia, particularly along the First Island Chain. His work covers maritime security, subsea cables, Taiwan, and the South China Sea, as well as regional cooperation through the Squad, Quad, AUKUS, and the U.S.–Japan–Philippines trilateral. Before joining CNAS, Claffey worked at the U.S. House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, focusing on defense and security issues, and at the Asia Society Policy Institute, where he analyzed U.S.–ASEAN relations. He also served as a posture planning fellow at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, helping expand U.S. force posture in the region. A native New Yorker, he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Columbia University. His undergraduate studies focused on history and East Asian languages and cultures, and his graduate studies focused on security policy, conflict resolution, and East Asia.
PROF. SALAWATI MAT BASIR
Professor, Centre of International Law & Siyar, National University of Malaysia
Prof Dr Salawati Mat Basir is a Professor at the Centre of International Law and Siyar, Faculty of Law, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). Prior to joining UKM, Prof Dr Salawati held several professional positions including practising Advocate & Solicitor, legal officer at multinational company and post conflict officer with United Nation on Trade and Development UNCTAD. Prof Dr Salawati held LLB, LLM and PhD from the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). Her research focuses on international law and maritime security, South China Sea conflict, globalisation and regional security, and defence policy. She currently is the Fellow at the Malaysian Institute of Defence and Security (MiDAS), Ministry of Defence Malaysia and also Senior Research Fellow at the Sea Power Centre, Royal Malaysian Navy.
SANTIAGO L. CASTILLO
Strategic Capture Specialist, KVG LLC
Santiago Juditho Emmanuel L. Castillo has a MSc degree in Strategic Studies from the S.Rajaratnam School of International Studies - Nanyang Technological University, an MA degree in International Studies major in Asian Studies from De La Salle University - Manila, and a BA degree in Philosophy from San Beda University. His research specializations and interests touch on defense/security policies, strategic studies, military capabilities and defense technology developments, Japan-Philippine defense and security relations, geopolitical intelligence, and recently emerging technologies relevant to defense innovation. He currently works for KVG, a US-based logistics company initially as Support Manager and now as a Strategic Capture Specialist, where he engages with government and private sector partners and stakeholders on industry and services related or in support of defense logistics and defense technology innovation. He was previously a Planning Assistant and Executive Assistant for the Philippines’ National Security Council for over three years, and part-time assistant lecturer at De La Salle University and the Lyceum of the Philippines University. He has published peer-reviewed articles and commentaries on Philippine defense capabilities, Philippine defense partnerships, and regional geopolitical issues in the Indo-Pacific.
DR. SAPTOPO ILKODAR
Assistant Professor, Pembangunan Nasional Veteran University of Yogyakarta
Saptopo Bambang Ilkodar completed his doctoral studies at Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia with a dissertation entitled "Disputes in the Spirit of ASEAN: The Application of the ASEAN Way in the Management of Ownership Disputes of Sipadan Island and Ligitan Islands, Ownership Disputes of Batu Putih Island, and Disputes of Sabah Territorial Ownership". Saptopo teaches at Universitas Pembangunan Nasional (UPN) "Veteran" Yogyakarta. He teaches courses in ASEAN Studies, National Defense, and the Introduction to Public Policy. Saptopo participated in the #PHISO2019 International Conference organized by the Philippines International Studies Organization in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Cebu on November 9-10, 2019, presenting a paper entitled "Theorizing ASEAN Way in Managing ASEAN Member States' Territorial Disputes". He delivered a public lecture at the Centre for International Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia entitled "ASEAN Way, the Way to Understand ASEAN" on 28 November 2019. Saptopo is also listed as a guest lecturer at the School of International Studies, Universiti Utara Malaysia from 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026. His publications include a book chapter on "ASEAN Credo and the Defense and Security Cooperation" in Poppy S Winanti et al. al (editors), 50 Years of Amity and Enmity: The Politics of ASEAN Cooperation. (2017, ISBN: 978-602-386-292-4; 1809251-B2E); Research note on “ASEAN’s Function in Handling COVID-19 Pandemic", SYNERGY: Journal of Strategic Studies & International Affairs (vol. 4, no. 1, July 2024: 136-144; and a book entitled National Defense: Concepts, Reasoning, and Application. (2025, ISBN: 978-623-6590-74-2).
SASHA BONAFEDE CHHABRA
Chairman, Taiwan International Center
Sasha Chhabra is a Taipei based security researcher and political commentator. As Chairman of the Taiwan International Center, he directs initiatives aimed at strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation between Taiwan and allied democracies. He is a frequent commentator in international media and publishes the newsletter Formosa Review on Substack.
DR. SCOTT EDWARDS
Senior Lecturer / Senior Research Fellow, Universiti Malaya / YCAPS
Scott Edwards is a Senior Lecturer at Universiti Malaya’s Department of International and Strategic Studies, and a Senior Research Fellow at the Yokosuka Council on Asia Pacific Studies (YCAPS). Scott’s research interests centre on the regional politics of Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on collective efforts combatting novel security issues. This has primarily been applied to Southeast Asia’s maritime security governance, but has since broadened out to consider the wider Indo-Pacific. His theoretical basis is on the role of trust in international relations, where he also engages with ideas regarding Communities of Practice. Scott has published on topics such as ASEAN’s regional maritime security governance, the interlinkages between sustainability and maritime security in Southeast Asia, and inter-agency maritime security coordination within Southeast Asian states. Scott has previously held postdoctoral positions at the Universities of Bristol and Leeds, and teaching positions at the Universities of Birmingham, Reading, and Bath. Scott is proactive in policy engagement, and is continually exploring how his work can inform policy debates. He has completed consultancies with organizations such as the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), European Critical Maritime Routes Indo-Pacific (EUCRIMARIO), and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
SEKSAN ANANTASIRIKIAT
Senior Researcher, International Studies Center (ISC), Thailand
Seksan Anantasirikiat is Senior Researcher at the International Studies Center (ISC), and Director of Public Relations, Korean Association of Thai Studies. He is also a member of the Foreign Affairs Sub-committee, the Sub-committee of International Affairs, the Thai Journalists Association, and the Press Council of Thailand. In addition, he is Advisor to the Regional Studies Association in Thailand. Before joining the ISC, Seksan served as academic officer at Chulalongkorn University’s ASEAN Studies Centre and researcher at Klang Panya, a non-governmental think-tank on Thailand’s strategies. His research interests are East Asian studies, public diplomacy, and national strategy for small and middle powers. Seksan has authored book chapters and articles on Japan and South Korea, as well as commentaries on various topics on Thailand’s foreign affairs, public diplomacy, role of middle powers, and ASEAN.
DR.SHERWIN E. ONA
Associate Professor, Department of Political Science & Development Studies, De La Salle University
Dr. Sherwin E. Ona is an Associate Professor at De La Salle University and former Chairperson of the Department of Political Science and Development Studies. His expertise spans digital transformation, cybersecurity, national security, and governance. A MOFA–Taiwan Fellow, he is affiliated with Taiwan’s Institute for National Defense and Security Research and is an alumnus of the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies, Hawaii, USA. Dr. Ona serves as Senior Fellow at the Philippine Public Safety College and Stratbase Institute, advises government agencies on cybersecurity and digital governance, publishes extensively on security issues, and is a Commander in the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary.
DR SONIA F PIMENTEL
Dean, University of Makati
Dr. Sonia F. Pimentel is the Dean of the College of Governance and Public Policy at the University of Makati. Concurrently, she is the University’s Director for its Executive Programs in Development Management and Governance. She also sits at the board of the Philippine Society for Public Administration. Her research focus is on public policy, local government administration and DEI.
AMB. SOTHIRAK POU
Distinguished Senior Advisor, Cambodian Center for Regional Studies
Ambassador Pou Sothirak is a retired academic currently serving as the Distinguished Senior Advisor to the Cambodian Center for Regional Studies (CCRS). He was the Executive Director of the Cambodian Institute for Cooperation and Peace from May 2013 to August 2023. He was appointed as Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia from September 2013 to January 2014.He was a Visiting Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of the Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS) in Singapore from January 2009 to December 2012. He also served as Cambodian Ambassador to Japan from April 2005 to November 2008. He was elected Cambodian Member of Parliaments twice during the national general election in 1993 and 2003. He was appointed as Minister of Industry Mines and Energy of the Royal Government of Cambodia from 1993 to 1998. He has written extensively on various issues concerning the development of Cambodia and the region.
SUSANNAH PATTON
Non-resident Fellow, Lowy Institute
Susannah Patton is a Nonresident fellow at the Lowy Institute and Director, Asia Engagement at RMIT University in Melbourne. From 2022 to 2026 Susannah led the Lowy Institute’s Southeast Asia Program and was responsible for the Asia Power Index. Her research interests include geopolitical trends in Southeast Asia and Australian foreign policy, especially relations with Southeast Asia. Susannah has contributed commentary to Australian and international media outlets, and her writing has been published in leading outlets including The New York Times, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy and the Lowy Interpreter. Earlier in her career Susannah worked in various Southeast Asia-focused positions in the Australian government. including as a Senior Analyst in the Office of National Intelligence and as a diplomat in the Australian Embassy in Bangkok.
SOPHIYA NAVARRO
Program Manager for Security and Innovation, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Philippines
Ms. Sophiya Navarro is the Program Manager for Security and Innovation at the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Philippines.She is the editor of several KAS publications and has authored articles for KAS, Rappler, the Ateneo de Manila University - School of Government (ASOG), and 9DashLine, covering various topics on security and governance.Sophiya holds a Bachelor’s degree in Diplomacy and International Relations with a specialization in East and Southeast Asian Studies, as well as a Minor in Literature (English) from the Ateneo de Manila University, where she graduated with honors in 2018 under a full scholarship.
CAPT. STEPHAN LITZLER
Defense Attaché, French Embassy
Captain (N) Litzler graduated from the French Naval Academy in 1997 and specialized in Anti-Submarine Warfare through various positions on board vessels, submarines, and HQs. He assumed top managing positions, as executive officer and commanding officer of various vessels in multiple operational environments. He finally specialized in International Relations in the Indo-Pacific through various positions in or for Oceania and South-East Asia. He assumed the role of first defense attaché of France in the Philippines in June 2024.
SUZANNE FAELNAR
Convenor; Co-Founder and President, Z Group Global; Network Empowering Transformative Societies
Suzanne Faelnar is an independent consultant in Human Security and Systems-Thinking Strategy, with 20 years of humanitarian leadership operating at the complex intersection of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), Counter-Terrorism, and Preventing/Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE). She is the Convenor of Z Group Global, a multisectoral network focused on peace, sustainable development, and security, and President and Co-founder of Network Empowering Transformative Societies (N.E.T.S.), Inc., advocating for environmental justice and security. A Member of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Community of Practice on Human Security, she bridges field practice with global frameworks. Her relevant training includes the UNITAR Leaders for Free and Open Indo-Pacific Sea and Human Security Program, the UN DESA Program on Government Innovation for Social Inclusion, and graduate coursework in International Relations and Diplomacy at Schiller International University in London, UK. Authorized by former AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr., she represented the Armed Forces of the Philippines via the Operations Research Center of the Philippine Army (ORC-PA) as a civilian expert at the U.S. DoD Irregular Warfare Center on the Archipelagic Whole-of-Nation approach. Her abstract on the Archipelagic Laboratory for civil-military cooperation was selected by the NATO CCOE for a case study exhibition at acaCIMICs in The Hague. A delegate to the closed-door Asia-Europe Counter-Terrorism Dialogues in Brussels, Berlin, and Jakarta, she has also guest-lectured for the AFP Civil-Military Operations School, Philippines. Ms. Faelnar holds a BA in Mass Communication from Assumption College.
THEA DOCENA
Planning Officer, Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs
Ms. Thea Lynn Docena currently works as a Planning Officer at the Department of Foreign Affairs. She also works as a Part-time Lecturer at the Lyceum University of the Philippines. She graduated with a master's degree in Philippine Studies (Foreign Relations) from the University of the Philippines.
THOMAS DANIEL
Director of Foreign Policy & Security Studies, Institute of Strategic & International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia
Thomas is a director with the Foreign Policy and Security Studies programme. His interests lie in the strategic-security challenges of Southeast Asia, including the impacts of major power dynamics on ASEAN. He looks mainly at the South China Sea dispute, political-security cohesion within ASEAN and Malaysia’s security and foreign policies. Thomas also focuses on government policies towards refugees, asylum seekers and other displaced people in Malaysia, as well as the impacts of the crisis in Myanmar on the region. He is a member of the Malaysia Study Group on Myanmar, convened by Universiti Malaya.
TONETTE DE JESUS
Senior Program Manager for Governance and Foreign Relations, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung
Marie Antoinette P. de Jesus is a researcher, writer, and program manager specializing in governance, economics, and foreign affairs. As Senior Governance and Economics Specialist at the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Philippines, she develops programs and writes on governance, economics, and international relations, among other topics. Her work delves into policy research and public discourse, with essays and analyses published in Rappler, 9DashLine, and the KAS Solutions Review series. Her experience spans the World Bank Office in Manila, the Asian Development Bank Knowledge Hub at the Asian Institute of Management, and the International Rice Research Institute.
PROF. TOSH MINOHARA
Chairman, Research Institute of Indo-Pacific Affairs
Dr. Tosh Minohara is Professor of International Relations and Security Studies at the Graduate School of Law and Politics, Kobe University. He received his B.A. in International Relations from University of California, Davis, and his Ph.D. in Political Science and Diplomatic History from Kobe University. He is the founder and chairman of the Cabinet Office certified (nintei) nonprofit, Research Institute of Indo-Pacific Affairs (RIIPA). He also is senior advisor to KREAB Japan and lecturer on national security to the National Security Group of the Global Tekijuku, Kansai Association of Corporate Executives (Kansai Keizai Doyukai). He also served as an external advisor to the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), lecturer at both the Japan Maritime and Air Self-Defense Force (JMSDF/JASDF) Command and Staff Colleges, and has served three tours (2011, 2022, 2023) aboard the JMDF training squadron as an academic specialist. This March, he was appointed as the Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Kosovo for Kansai.
He is the author of many books and articles of which the most recent is the compiled volume, The Handbook of Japan's Foreign and Domestic Policies During the Decade of Abe (Amsterdam University Press, 2025). His academic achievements have been recognized as a recipient of both the Shimizu Hiroshi Prize (2002) and the Japan Academic Research Award (2019).
TUAN KHANH NGUYEN
Lecturer, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University of HCMC
Nguyễn Tuấn Khanh is a lecturer at the Faculty of International Relations, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City. His research spans the history and theory of International Relations, international security, research methodology, and the international relations of Southeast Asia, with particular attention to the South China Sea disputes. His work relies primarily on qualitative methods, notably case study and process tracing alongside discourse and content analysis. His current research agenda extends from maritime security in the South China Sea toward questions of regional order and minilateralism, Vietnamese foreign policy, and the theory and methodology of the discipline itself. He teaches IR theory, diplomatic history, research methodology, and security and regional studies at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, in Vietnamese and English, and supervises student research. He publishes in both languages, contributing to peer-reviewed journals, edited volumes, and policy commentary.
VENICE VILLANUEVA
Communications Specialist, Office of the President, Philippine Reclamation Authority
Venice Erica Villanueva is a Communications Specialist at the Philippine Reclamation Authority under the Office of the President of the Republic of the Philippines. A graduate of International Studies from San Beda College Alabang, she has professional experience in public diplomacy, strategic communications, and international engagement. She has served as a Volunteer Ambassador with the Diplomatic League under the Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne and as an Ambassador with International Model United Nations (IMUN), supporting cross-cultural dialogue and youth participation in global affairs. Her previous experience includes work with the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines and the Department of Foreign Affairs–Office of Public Diplomacy. Venice has also held leadership roles in student and international affairs organizations and has completed certifications in diplomacy, governance, trade, environmental law, and human rights.
VINCENT KYLE PARADA
Lecturer, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde
Vincent Kyle Parada is a defence analyst specialising in Philippine foreign and defence policy, Indo-Pacific maritime security, military innovation and transformation, and US-China great power competition. He is currently a lecturer at the School of Diplomacy and Governance, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, where he teaches courses on national and international security. Prior to entering academia, he worked as a research assistant for the Future Issues and Technology cluster of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, as well as a defence analyst for the Office of Naval Strategic Studies and Strategy Management, Philippine Navy, and a researcher for the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations, J7, Armed Forces of the Philippines.
WAYNE WINTER J. UYSECO
Mr. Wayne Winter Uyseco is a faculty member from the Far Eastern University Department of International Studies. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Development Studies from the De La Salle University Manila.
COL. XERXES A TRINIDAD
Chief of the Public Affairs Office, Armed Forces of the Philippines
COL XERXES A TRINIDAD PA (MNSA) currently serves as Chief of the Public Affairs Office of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), where he leads strategic communication and public information efforts in support of the AFP’s mission.A seasoned Infantry Officer of the Philippine Army, he has extensive operational and leadership experience in combat and non-combat assignments, with expertise in Civil-Military Operations and Public Affairs. Before his current post, he served as Army Spokesperson and Army Chief Public Affairs, overseeing media engagement, public communication, and information strategies of the Philippine Army.He previously served as Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations (G7) of the 4th Infantry Division and Commanding Officer of the 36th Infantry Battalion, leading troops in security and stability operations.A member of the Philippine Military Academy “Marilag” Class of 1995, COL TRINIDAD is a professionally trained Scout Ranger and Airborne Paratrooper. He holds a Master in National Security Administration from the National Defense College of the Philippines, completed the Command and General Staff Course under the AFP Education, Training, and Doctrine Command, and earned a Master in Public Management major in Development Security from the Development Academy of the Philippines. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Management from the Philippine Military Academy.COL TRINIDAD’s combined operational, leadership, and communication experience contributes to strengthening public trust, transparency, strategic communication, and civil-military cooperation in support of national security.
CAPT. XIAOBO LIU (RET., PLAN)
Director, Marine Study Center, Grandview Institution, Beijing
Captain (Ret.) Liu Xiaobo is a senior fellow and director of the Marine Study Center, Grandview Institution, Beijing, China. His research focuses on national maritime security policy, sea power, and the Law of the Sea. Before joining the Grandview Institution, Capt. Liu had served in the PLA Navy for 24 years and had worked as a research fellow in the National Institute for South China Sea Studies.
XAVIER GENTALIAN
Collegiate Lecturer - Department of Political Science and Development Studies, De La Salle University
Mr. Xavier Dwight Gentalian is a scholar of political science with a keen interest in political philosophy, citizenship, agency, and political spaces. Based in the Philippines, he serves as a tenured faculty member of the Humanities and Social Sciences Department and a part-time faculty position at the Department of Political Science and Development Studies at the De La Salle University, where he contributes to fostering academic growth in these dynamic fields. He holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in political science, which he earned from Far Eastern University and De La Salle University, respectively. He is preparing to pursue doctoral studies in the near future, seeking to deepen his contributions to political science scholarship and pedagogy.
DR.XIAOQIN SHI
Adjunct Professor, School of Public Administration of, Zhejiang University
Dr. XIAOQIN SHI is an adjunct professor at the School of Public Administration of Zhejiang University, a senior researcher at the Institute of Social Governance of Zhejiang University, and a retired Senior Colonel. Her research fields are maritime security, national security, and naval strategy, and she has published the book Seapower and Sino-US Relations.
H.E. YULIIA FEDIV
Ukrainian Ambassador to the Philippine
H.E. Dr. Yuliia Fediv is the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Republic of the Philippines, appointed in 2025. She holds degrees in International Relations, Law and Political Science from universities in Ukraine, Germany and USA. A distinguished cultural manager, diplomat, and public servant, she previously served as the first Executive Director of the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation and held leadership roles in the Ukrainian Institute, Public Broadcaster and UNESCO and EU related cultural initiatives. With extensive experience in international cooperation, cultural diplomacy, and public policy, Ambassador Fediv is committed to strengthening Ukraine–Philippines relations and promoting cultural, educational, and economic partnerships.
PROF. ZHENG ZHIHUA
Associate Professor and Head of East Asia Marine Policy Project, Center for Japanese Studies, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Dr. ZHENG Zhihua is an associate Professor of Japan Research Center of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Head of East Asia Marine Policy Project. He is also a member of the Professional Committee of Maritime History and Culture Research of the China Maritime Society. He severed as the director of Joint Institute for Maritime Law and History, assistant dean of the School of International Shipping Law at East China University of Political Science and Law (ECUPL), and deputy secretary general of Shanghai Law and Society Association. He joined the board of editorial of China Ocean Law Review and severed as senior editor from 2010 to 2013. He was appointed as Judge of Ningbo Maritime Court in 2004. He got qualification for admission to the Chinese Bar in 1998. He was a visiting fellow of St. John’s College at Oxford University, Institute of Maritime Law at Southampton University and Law Faculty at Göettingen University.
DR. ZSUZSA A FERENCZY
Member, Academic Council, Martens Center Brussels
Dr. Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy is Member of the Academic Council at the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies in Brussels and Adjunct Assistant Professor at National Dong Hwa University in Hualien, Taiwan. Based in Taiwan between 2020 and 2025, she worked as a geopolitical analyst and academic, developing expertise on Europe’s strategic engagement with the Indo-Pacific, particularly Southeast Asia. Zsuzsa’s work on Taiwan’s internationalization through a European lens places particular emphasis on ASEAN and India—key regional partners for Europe. Zsuzsa has contributed to high-level research and policy projects on connectivity, democratic resilience, economic security and hybrid threats, working closely with leading think tanks and research institutes. From 2008 to 2020 she served as a political advisor in the European Parliament. She is the author of “Europe, China, and the Limits of Normative Power” (Edward Elgar Publishing 2019) and “Partners in Peace. Why Europe and Taiwan Matter to Each Other” (Palgrave Macmillan 2024). She is Research Fellow at the Institute for Security & Development Policy (Stockholm), Head of Associates Network at 9DASHLINE (London), Fellow at Agora Strategy (Munich), and a regular commentator in international media.
PROF. VICTOR ANDRES MANHIT
President & CEO, Stratbase Group; Vice-Chair, We Protect our Seas
Since he founded The Stratbase Group in 2004, Prof. Victor Andres "Dindo" Manhit has provided top-level strategic analysis and thought leadership on global issues in the Philippines.He is the President of Stratbase Institute, an independent, international think tank based in the Philippines. In the age of geopolitical uncertainties and technological advancements, Stratbase ADR Institute gives equal importance to the interdependent nature of states, sectors, and stakeholders for its strategic analyses and policy initiatives in a multi-polar world.As a public policy analyst and geo-strategist, he thinks beyond politics for his political risk assessment that is also data-driven. With his extensive experience in legislation and policy making including serving as Undersecretary of the Department of Education, Deputy Secretary of the Philippine Senate and being Chief of Staff of a Senate President, he continues to help Stratbase’s clients and partners understand the interplay between business and government and the impact of legislative, regulatory, and geo-politics on their strategic initiatives.Professor Manhit obtained his Master’s Degree in Public Administration and Bachelor’s Degree in Philippine Studies (Major in Political Science and History) from the University of the Philippines. A member of Phi Gamma Mu International Honors Society Beta Chapter.
MARITES D. VITUG
Editor at Large, Rappler
Marites Dañguilan Vitug, a leading Filipino investigative journalist and author, is editor-at-large for Rappler. She writes on foreign affairs, security, and politics. She has written nine books, the latest of which is Unrequited Love: Duterte’s Embrace of China co-written with Camille Elemia—which was shortlisted for the 2026 National Book Award. Before that, she wrote Rock Solid: How the Philippines Won its Maritime Case against China. It won the National Book Award and was translated into Vietnamese. Marites is among the contributors to the 2026 book, “Beyond Geopolitics: The Philippines in the New Marcos Era,” published by ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute; the 2021 book, “Maritime Issues and Regional Order in the Indo-Pacific,” published by Palgrave/Macmillan; and the 1998 book, “The Politics of Environment in Southeast Asia,” published by Routledge. Her articles have been published in Foreign Affairs, Raisina Files, Nikkei Asia, among others. Marites has a degree in A.B. Broadcast Communication from the University of the Philippines and a diploma in world politics from the London School of Economics. She was a Nieman fellow at Harvard University and a recipient of fellowships from the University of San Diego in California—the Pacific Leadership Fellow; the Rockefeller Foundation Writing Fellowship in Bellagio Center, Lago di Como, Italy; the International House in Tokyo—the Asia Leadership Fellow Program; the Australian National University, University of Kyoto and the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies in Tokyo.
PROF. RENE DE CASTRO
Distinguished Professor, De La Salle University
Renato Cruz De Castro is a distinguished professor at the Department of International Studies, De La Salle University, Manila, and holds the Dr. Aurelio Calderon Chair in Philippines-American Relations. He is an adjunct faculty at the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP), where he handles the module International Security Studies. (ISS). He was a visiting fellow at the National Institute for Defense Studies (NIDS) of the Japanese Ministry of Defense in the summer of 2018. He was a visiting researcher at the Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA) from June to August 2017. From September to December 2016, he was based in the East-West Center in Washington D.C. as the U.S.-ASEAN Fulbright Initiative Researcher from the Philippines. He is an alumnus of the Daniel Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DIAPCSS) in Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A. In 2009, he became the U.S. State Department ASEAN Research Fellow from the Philippines and was based in the Political Science Department of Arizona State University.