MANILA, Philippines – Political leaders, democracy advocates, and policymakers from across Asia convened in Metro Manila for a four-day regional summit, issuing a warning that democratic institutions are under increasing strain.
The "All About Democracy" forum, hosted by the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD), the Center for Liberalism and Democracy, and the Liberal Party of the Philippines, began Thursday evening and continues until March 29. More than 40 representatives from Southeast and East Asia are participating.
Summit Opens with Focus on Violence Against Women in Politics
The conference commenced with formal ceremonies and a gala at the Dusit Thani Manila in Makati City. The opening night featured a panel discussion titled “Democratic Resilience at Risk: Violence Against Women in Politics in Asia,” addressing urgent challenges to democratic systems.
Panelists warned that violence against women in politics, including online harassment, disinformation campaigns, and legal intimidation, is silencing female leaders and weakening democratic resilience. They emphasized the need for safer, more inclusive environments for women in public service, highlighting the responsibility of political parties and institutions to implement structural reforms.
One panelist stated, “Democracy cannot thrive if women are pushed out of leadership spaces through fear, intimidation, or systemic barriers.”
Discussion on Factors Driving Violence Against Women in Politics
The panel session explored the social, cultural, economic, and institutional factors driving violence against women in politics, along with its broader impact on governance and public trust. The discussion was chaired by Mara Cepeda and featured key regional figures, including Leila de Lima, Taiwan youth leader Michelle Wu of the Democratic Progressive Party, and Thai parliamentary candidate V Srivarathanabul. Jaslyn Go of the CALD Women’s Caucus delivered closing remarks.
Liberal Party President Lorenzo “Erin” Tañada III and Friedrich Naumann Foundation Regional Director Moritz Kleine-Brockhoff delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the urgency of strengthening democratic cooperation in Asia.
Conference Schedule and Participating Delegates
The conference, which runs from March 26 to 29, includes policy discussions, leadership meetings, regional elections within CALD, and strategic planning sessions aimed at strengthening democratic institutions across Asia. Delegates from the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other countries are participating in the forum.
Participants are tackling issues ranging from political polarization and disinformation to institutional resilience and governance reform. The gathering features regional policy roundtables on democratic resilience, workshops on political cooperation, and planning sessions designed to reinforce collaboration among democratic movements in the region.
Organizers said these efforts are critical at a time when democratic institutions in several countries are facing both internal and external pressures.
Visits to Historical Sites and Focus on Local Governance
Participants are scheduled to visit key historical sites tied to the Philippines’ democratic struggle, including the Museo ng Pag-asa and the Bantayog ng mga Bayani memorial, underscoring the country’s legacy of people-powered resistance and its relevance in contemporary democratic discourse.
The summit has drawn national leaders, international delegates, and local officials, highlighting the role of grassroots governance in sustaining democratic systems. Former Dumaguete City mayor Felipe “Ipe” Remollo, along with Dumaguete City councilors Rey Lyndon Lawas and Renz Macion, attended the opening ceremonies and gala dinner.
Other Notable Attendees
Also present were former Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad, incumbent Caloocan Congressman Edgar Erice, and former congressman Francis Gerald “Blue” Abaya. Former Ifugao congressman Teddy Baguilat and former Quezon City congressman Christopher Keith Belmonte, known for their involvement in liberal democratic movements in the Philippines, also attended.
Organizers said Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan and a video message from Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta are expected later in the week, reflecting the regional and international importance of the gathering.
Importance of Local Leadership and Citizen Engagement
Their participation reflects a central message echoed throughout the conference: that democracy is sustained at the local and national levels, where public trust, accountability, and citizen engagement are most directly felt.
Organizers stressed that while regional alliances are critical, the strength of democracy depends on leaders within communities who uphold institutions, protect fundamental rights, and ensure accountability in governance.
CALD's Mission and Future Initiatives
CALD officials reiterated the organization’s continuing mission to train emerging leaders, expand women’s participation in politics, and empower youth engagement across the region. They emphasized that long-term democratic stability depends on inclusive leadership and active civic participation.
Through sustained dialogue, capacity-building initiatives, and regional cooperation, the network seeks to address emerging political challenges, including rising polarization, disinformation, and weakening institutional trust—issues that many participants said are increasingly interconnected across borders.
Call for Collective Action and Inclusive Participation
Speakers at the opening emphasized that while democratic systems in Asia face growing pressure, collective action among democratic leaders remains a powerful force capable of reinforcing institutions and protecting democratic norms. As the summit unfolds, delegates said safeguarding democracy requires not only strong institutions but the full and active participation of women, young leaders, and communities across Asia.
Amaya Abong served as Master of Ceremonies for the opening ceremonies and gala program.
Photo credit: Photo from CALD