DFA Public Diplomacy caravan brings foreign policy insights to MSU-IIT students
Mar 24 2025
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) successfully brought its Public Diplomacy Caravan to Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) on March 20, 2025, engaging students and faculty in a dynamic exchange about Philippine foreign policy and the multifaceted work of the DFA.
The event, facilitated by the MSU-IIT Department of Political Science, provided a valuable platform for fostering a deeper understanding of the nation's international relations. It featured a series of presentations by key DFA officials.
The program commenced with insights from Assistant Secretary of the Office of Public Diplomacy, Arvin R. de Leon, who emphasized in his opening remarks the importance of public engagement in shaping the nation's foreign policy.
A teaser video on the pillars of Philippine Foreign Policy, Public Diplomacy, and Cultural Diplomacy, prepared by Assistant Secretary de Leon's office provided a concise overview of the DFA's strategic objectives.
Following this, Mark Hanzel Lao, Acting Director of the Office of Policy Planning and Coordination (OPPC), delivered a presentation on the department's policy framework.
The caravan then delved into specific areas of focus. Assistant Secretary of the Office of Maritime and Ocean Affairs Office, Marshall Louis M. Alferez, addressed crucial maritime and ocean-related issues, highlighting the Philippines' stance in the region.
Charles Lawrence L. Ching, Director of the Office of Asian and Pacific Affairs (ASPAC), provided insights into the country's engagements with its Asian and Pacific neighbors.
Johaira C. Wahab-Manantan, Acting Director of the Office of United Nations and International Organizations (UNIO), discussed the Philippines' role in the global arena through its participation in the UN and other international bodies.
DFA’s Human Resources Management Office (HRMO) also gave a presentation, giving students insights into possible career paths within the department. This was expertly moderated by Jacqueline Joan S. Arquiza, Acting Director of the Office of Public Diplomacy.
The DFA Public Diplomacy Caravan is a nationwide initiative designed to bridge the gap between the government and the public, providing valuable information on the country's foreign policy and promoting greater awareness of the DFA's role in safeguarding national interests and fostering international cooperation. The event at MSU-IIT is a part of this ongoing effort to reach out to the youth and empower them with knowledge about the Philippines' engagement in the global community.
After the caravan, Assistant Secretary Alferez held a dedicated meeting with the Department of Marine Sciences at MSU-IIT. This meeting focused on discussing crucial updates and research matters related to the marine environment. This interaction underscores the DFA's commitment to not only disseminating information but also fostering collaboration with academic institutions on pressing national and international issues.
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