Philippine journalists briefing from the Philippine Consul General in New York during their Friends, Partners, Allies Reporting Tour | Photo courtesy of Nikka Arenal/PCGNY
NEW YORK—Ten journalists representing their respective publications in the Philippines recently visited the Philippine Consulate in New York for a courtesy call during their three-week journalism program, Friends, Partners, Allies Reporting Tour. The program is an initiative of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines in partnership with the Civilian Research and Development Foundation Global (CRDF) and runs from April 20 to May 8, 2024.
According to its website, “CRDF Global is an independent nonprofit organization founded in 1995 in response to the collapse of the Soviet Union and the threat of large-scale proliferation of weapons technology from the region.”
The participating journalists are in the U.S. to engage in on-the-record meetings and background briefings with U.S. government officials, policymakers, companies, news organizations, and members of the Filipino-American community, among others, and gain new insights into U.S.-Philippine relations.
For its part, the consulate convened a panel consisting of Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, Tourism Attache Francisco M. Lardizal, and Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo from the Department of Trade and Industry’s Development and Investment Promotions Group (IPG).
The panelists discussed promoting Philippine interests in defense and security, economic cooperation, tourism, cultural diplomacy, and the consulate’s engagement with the Filipino American communities, providing insights into its activities within its jurisdiction.
Some of the key points discussed during the event include:
- Defense and Security: The discussions focused on collaborative security measures essential for maintaining stability in the Asia-Pacific region. The Filipino-American community’s perception of the West Philippine Sea issue was highlighted, emphasizing their deep connection to the region and its implications for national security.
- Economic Cooperation: Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo from the Department of Trade and Industry’s Industry Development and Investment Promotions Group (IPG) discussed efforts to enhance trade and investment flows. He emphasized the Philippines’ intent to secure a free trade agreement (FTA) with the United States, signaling their commitment to putting the Philippines first in line for FTA negotiations.
- Tourism: Tourism Attaché Francisco M. Lardizabal emphasized the strategic importance of American tourists to the Philippines. Despite being second to South Koreans in visitor numbers, American tourists significantly contribute to tourism receipts. Efforts are being made to attract former Filipinos and mainstream American tourists to destinations like Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao.
- Cultural Diplomacy: The consulate highlighted its strategic approach to cultural diplomacy, managing cultural exchanges, and community relations. This approach helps engage Filipino and non-Filipino audiences more effectively in the U.S. Northeast.
The Friends, Partners, Allies Program for Journalists has brought together a cohort of ten distinguished journalists from the Philippines, including John Ted Cordero of GMA News Online, Celeste Anna Formoso of Palawan News and The Daily Tribune, Jomelle Garner of The Daily Tribune, Iris Gonzales of Philippine Star, Lucky Malicay of The FREEMAN, Jervis Manahan of ABS-CBN News, Frances Mangosing of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Vinafel Pilapil of Mindanao Media Hub (MMH)/People’s Television Network, Joyce Rocamora of the Philippine News Agency, and Martin Sadongdong of Manila Bulletin. These journalists specialize in foreign affairs, business, and defense and are poised to deliver comprehensive reports that will enrich the public understanding of these strategic bilateral engagements.
