Manila

As we enter this season, let’s remember that real growth often happens in the quiet moments of reflection. In the stillness, we find space for renewal and deeper connection. May this time of silence bring us closer to the transformation we seek. 🌿✨

What an amazing night at the Women Speak Up Documentary Advance Screening at Sine Pop Cubao, Quezon City on April 5, 2025! 🎬 The event was packed with passionate members from Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats, Kababaihang Liberal, Koalisyon ng Organisadong Samahan ng Maralitang Taga-Lungsod, Institute on Church and Social Issues, Kababaihan para sa Pagbangon at Pagbabago, UP Center for Women's and Gender Studies who got to watch a powerful 30-minute film about three inspiring women — Atty. Leila De Lima, Ms. Cici Jueco and Ms. Shirley Gannaban, overcoming challenges and speaking up for their rights. Produced by the Center for Liberalism and Democracy, in partnership with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation Philippines, the evening continued with an insightful talkback session moderated by Krixia Subingsubing from Philippine Daily Inquirer. Ms. Janus Gloria, Director of the documentary, Professor Tez Cruz of UP College of Social Welfare and Community Development, board member of Bayi, Inc, and founder of Femmelab and documentary subjects Ms. Cici Jueco and Ms. Shirley Gannaban shared their experiences, followed by an open forum where the audience got to share their thoughts. The documentary will be available online this Easter week so stay tuned and follow the Center for Liberalism and Democracy for updates!

The Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats, in partnership with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation, Center for Liberalism and Democracy, Department of International Studies of Miriam College, and the Philippine International Studies Organization, is hosting a regional conference titled "South China Sea Disputes under Trump 2.0: Finding Common Ground Among Claimant States" at Miriam College, Quezon City. The event explores the current situation in the South China Sea, focusing on recent developments, the claims of each claimant state, and potential areas for cooperation. Thekla Ebbert, Regional Programme Coordinator of Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Southeast & East Asia in her welcome remarks, emphasized the importance of hope and ongoing regional cooperation despite challenges posed by United States foreign policies. The conference will feature three sessions: Treading on Dangerous Waters: Recent Developments and Trends in the South China Sea which is ongoing, Understanding the Competing Claims in the South China Sea, and Finding a Way Forward: Exploring Cooperation Amidst Competing Claims which will be held this afternoon. A Fireside Chat focusing on the human rights and social justice implications of the South China Sea disputes featuring Atty. Leila De Lima will also be conducted this afternoon.