In recent years, the nature of security threats has evolved significantly. Beyond traditional military concerns, non-traditional security challenges—particularly climate change—have emerged as critical threats to the survival and well-being of both states and societies. Climate change acts as a “threat multiplier,” exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and contributing to resource scarcity, food and water insecurity, public health risks, and population displacement. These dynamics, in turn, heighten the risk of social tensions, humanitarian crises, and instability across regions.

In this context, the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship presents a strategic opportunity not only to elevate climate security within the regional agenda, but also to promote dialogue and cooperation among ASEAN Member States and key external partners. Given the transnational nature of climate risks, effective responses require engagement beyond the region, including collaboration with partners such as Germany, a recognized leader in climate and environmental diplomacy and sustainable development. Germany has been a longstanding partner of ASEAN in advancing environmental protection and climate change mitigation, supporting initiatives that strengthen resilience, promote green transitions, and foster multilateral cooperation.

In line with this, Stratbase Institute, in partnership with the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in the Philippines, will organize a conference entitled “Towards a Peaceful and Sustainable Future: Addressing Climate Security in ASEAN” on August 24, 2026 (Monday) from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Ballroom 1, Fairmont, Makati. The event will convene key stakeholders from the government, private sector, diplomatic missions, academia, and civil society to examine the security implications of climate change, explore policy responses to strengthen climate resilience, and identify opportunities for advancing regional cooperation under the Philippines’ ASEAN leadership.

Program

9:00 AM – 9:05 AM 
Introduction

9:05 AM – 9:15 AM 
Opening Remarks 

Speaker: 

• H.E. Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke (CONFIRMED): Ambassador Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in the Philippines

9:15 AM – 9:45 AM 
Keynote Message 

Speakers: 

• Hon. Juan Miguel Cuna (CONFIRMED) Secretary Department of Environment and Natural Resources
• Hon. Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga (CONFIRMED) Special Envoy for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Republic of the Philippines

9:45 AM – 10:00 AM 
Coffee Break

10:00 AM – 10:40 AM 
Panel 1: Assessing the Security Implications of Climate Risks 

This panel will examine how climate risks increasingly shape the regional security environment. Discussions will explore the implications of climate-related pressures on critical areas such as food security, energy security, water security, disaster resilience, and biodiversity loss. The panel will also highlight the importance of integrating climate considerations into broader development strategies to address emerging risks. 

Moderator: 

• Mr. Ludwig Federigan (CONFIRMED) Non-Resident Fellow Stratbase Institute

Speakers: 

• Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh (CONFIRMED) Undersecretary for Finance, Information Systems and Climate Change Department of Environment and Natural Resources 
• Dr. Mely Caballero-Anthony (CONFIRMED) Professor of International Relations, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies Nanyang Technological University 
• Mr. Aristyo Darmawan (CONFIRMED) Assistant Professor Universitas Indonesia 
• Mr. Lukas Rüttinger (CONFIRMED) Senior Advisor - Environmental and Climate Security Adelphi

10:40 AM – 11:30 AM 
Moderated Discussion

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM  
Lunch

12:30 PM – 1:00 PM  
Panel 2: Strengthening Efforts to Promote Climate Security 

This panel will explore policy responses and strategic approaches to strengthening climate security at the national and regional levels. Discussions will focus on building resilience through governance reforms, multisectoral coordination, and investments in sustainable and adaptive systems. Particular attention will be given to ecosystem-based approaches and nature-driven solutions that enhance environmental resilience, support livelihoods, and mitigate the risk of humanitarian crises. 

Moderator:

• Dr. Chester Cabalza (CONFIRMED) Non-Resident Fellow, Stratbase Institute Founding President, International Development and Security Cooperation

Speakers: 

• Secretary Robert E.A. Borje (CONFIRMED) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Climate Change Commission 
• Mr. Butch Meily (CONFIRMED) President Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation 
• Dr. Kira Vinke (CONFIRMED) Deputy Research Director and Head of the Center for Climate and Foreign Policy German Council on Foreign Relations 
• Dr. Chad Michael Briggs (CONFIRMED) Professor Academic Program Director, Executive Master in Disaster Risk and Crisis Management

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM 
Open Forum

2:00 PM – 2:15 PM 
Break

2:15 PM – 2:45 PM 
Panel 3: Leveraging the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship to Advance Regional Cooperation on Climate Security 

This panel will examine how the Philippines can utilize its ASEAN Chairmanship to strengthen regional cooperation on climate security. Discussions will highlight opportunities to advance climate and environmental diplomacy, enhance coordination among ASEAN member states, and mobilize partnerships with international stakeholders. The panel will also explore how ASEAN mechanisms can be leveraged to address transboundary climate risks and promote collective resilience in the region. 

Moderator:

• Dr. Mary Kristerie Baleva (CONFIRMED) Non-Resident Fellow, Stratbase Institute Former Director, ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

Speakers: 

• Ms. Victorina Dewayani (or her representative) Chargé d'affaires Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in the Philippines 
• H.E. Dato' Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino (or his representative) Ambassador Embassy of Malaysia in the Philippines 
• H.E. See Sin Yuan Angelita Constance (CONFIRMED) Ambassador Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in the Philippines 
• H.E. Lai Thai Binh (CONFIRMED) Ambassador Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam in the Philippines

2:45 PM – 3:50 PM 
Open Forum 

3:50 PM – 4:00 PM 
Closing Remarks 

Speaker: 

• Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit (CONFIRMED) President Stratbase Institute 

Host: 

• Ms. Regina Lay (CONFIRMED) Business & Economic News Editor, News Anchor, Cignal TV (One News) Fellow, Jefferson Fellowship, East West Center