OUCSCA, German Foundations Hold First Philippine International Political Empowerment Roundtable

MANILA 07 April 2025 — DFA Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs Jesus "Gary" Domingo met with the country representatives from the German political foundations in Manila, following their collaboration for the first Philippine International Political Empowerment Roundtable on 31 March 2025. The roundtable, hosted at the DFA, focused on deepening youth engagement in political education and advancing democratic governance.

The roundtable brought together members of the Diplomatic League, and youth leaders to be briefed on Germany’s political system and the work of the foundations. Through the roundtable, participants gained valuable insights into Germany’s multi-party system, the pivotal role of political foundations in shaping democratic values, and the importance of political education in encouraging active civic participation.

Country representatives who served as speakers included Dr. Almut Besold, Head of Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF) Philippines, Mr. Alexander Birle, Resident Representative of Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF) Philippines; Ms. Daniela Braun, and Country Director of the Konrad-Adenaur Stiftung (KAS) Philippines.  They shared their experiences in promoting democratic ideologies, governance initiatives, and their ongoing and future projects in the Philippines focused on political education, democratic reforms, and capacity-building programs.  An in-depth  discussion on the way forward was later held with the three representatives, together with Ms. Marie Schröter, Resident Representative of Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Philippines and Ms. Dara Eoy, Director of Communications of the Diplomatic League.

This collaboration facilitated cross-cultural learning and the exchange of best practices in governance. Through such engagements, the DFA reaffirms its commitment to equipping young leaders with the knowledge and tools for meaningful political participation. END