PHILIPPINES

FNF-Philippines conducts Alumni Gathering at German Club Manila

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation-Philippines (FNF) continued its tradition of fostering camaraderie and maintaining strong ties with its partners and alumni by hosting the 2024 Alumni Gathering on May 31, 2024, at the German Club Manila, Makati City.

This year, the gathering brought together International Academy for Leadership (IAF) alumni and current partners from German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., Liberal Party of the Philippines, Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats, Center for Liberalism and Democracy, Liberal Youth, iMPACT Leadership, Kaya Natin! Movement for Good Governance and Ethical Leadership, and AltMobility.

Dr. Almut Besold, Country Director of FNF Philippines, commenced the event by acknowledging the presence of the attendees as well as offering them gratitude for gracing the gathering. 

Ms. Yanyan Arana, Project Manager of FNF Philippines, then highlighted the FNF and partners-initiated programs and activities during the first six months of the year. She also encouraged the attendees to join upcoming IAF seminars and trainings in order for them to improve their leadership skills as well as to widen their knowledge on human rights, liberalism, and democracy.

The event also focused in exposing the participants in facilitated discussions on the current political and social landscape of the country. An engaging and interactive session titled “Investing in What Works: Alumni Chart The Course” was done where participants provided inputs on relevant topics while FNF draws from the diverse perspectives to explore emerging trends and key themes aligned with the foundation's mission.

The attendees, divided into groups, exchanged ideas about timely topics such as Disinformation, West Philippine Sea disputes, Climate Justice and Energy Security, Artificial Intelligence and Digitalization, and Renewable energy.

To add a touch of enjoyment to the night, a pub quiz was held as well before opening the floor for networking and collaboration opportunities.

Ms. Grace Vasquez, Program Officer of FNF Philippines and the main organizer of the activity delivered the closing remarks of the event.

Looking ahead, FNF Philippines plans to continue organizing activities where alumni and its partners are invited to participate to ensure seamless partnership and mutual growth and learning which are both vital instruments to success of projects and advocacies in the future.

This article is written by Pie Escobar, the Communication Officer for the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Philippine Office