PHILIPPINES

Center for Liberalism and Democracy Promotes Political Discourse and Free Expression

One of the ongoing initiatives of the Center for Liberalism and Democracy (CLD) is to provide a safe space for discussing political and social issues. Through its Freedom Spaces program, CLD fosters open dialogue, encourages free expression, and bridges divides by recognizing the diversity of viewpoints. This initiative aims to create new platforms for liberal democratic values, helping to expand the conversation around political freedoms and social justice.

This year, on July 2, 2024, CLD launched its annual online event titled #RealTalk: SONA ba Tayo? A Discussion on Geopolitics and the Economy. The event, organized in partnership with FNF, focused on analyzing the key issues raised during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (SONA).

The discussion featured a panel of experts who provided insights into the topics covered in the SONA. Rep. Teddy Baguilat, from the Liberal Party of the Philippines, served as a speaker, while Prof. Barry Gutierrez from the UP College of Law and Prof. Edcel Ibarra from the UP Department of Political Science acted as panelists. Mara Cepeda from The Straits Times moderated the discussion.

The roundtable focused on several critical issues, particularly the rising geopolitical tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Experts addressed China's aggressive actions in the region and the impact on the Philippines’ national security and sovereignty. Additionally, the panel discussed the socioeconomic effects of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) on the economy and public safety, alongside broader global conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestine situation. With the 2025 midterm elections approaching, the discussion also explored how these issues could influence national policies and the political landscape in the Philippines.

Rep. Teddy Baguilat emphasized the importance of moving beyond political partisanship and focusing on facts to engage the public. He pointed out that many Filipinos are not fully aware of the complex issues raised in the SONA and urged for more informed discussions. Prof. Edcel Ibarra highlighted a shift in foreign policy from Duterte to Aquino under President Marcos Jr. He warned that if the Marcos administration continues to rely on distraction tactics like the War on Drugs, it could undermine democracy. Prof. Ibarra also raised concerns about a potential increase in aggressive social media tactics within the United Team and pointed out Vice President Sara Duterte's silence on the West Philippine Sea as a sign of political divisions. He criticized the first part of the SONA as lacking new priorities, with more meaningful announcements only appearing later in the speech.

The workshop successfully achieved its goals of evaluating the recent SONA and discussing its proposed solutions to national security threats, particularly the escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea. The panel also examined how global conflicts are influencing domestic policy in the Philippines and assessed the socioeconomic implications of these issues on public safety, the economy, and societal values.

In addition to Freedom Spaces, CLD promotes free expression through its quarterly publication, Plaza Miranda. The publication serves as a platform for discussing important social, political, economic, and cultural issues related to liberal democracy. It is targeted at Liberal Party members and allies, as well as academia, media, civil society, professionals, and the business sector.

In addition to Freedom Spaces, CLD promotes free expression through its quarterly publication, Plaza Miranda. The publication serves as a platform for discussing important social, political, economic, and cultural issues related to liberal democracy. It is targeted at Liberal Party members and allies, as well as academia, media, civil society, professionals, and the business sector.

Plaza Miranda aims to contribute to the growing literature on socio-political topics with accessible content that promotes liberal values and principles. The first edition included articles on the 35th EDSA Commemoration, statements on PIRMA, and a feature on Atty. Leila de Lima. The second issue, published later in 2024, covered topics such as Sen. Leila de Lima’s acquittal, a story about a local party chapter in Rodriguez, Rizal, and an article comparing the presidencies of Noynoy Aquino and Barack Obama.

Plaza Miranda, published in partnership with FNF Philippines, is part of CLD’s ongoing efforts to provide a space for thoughtful discussions on freedom, democracy, justice, social equity, human rights, and sustainable development.

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