Agents of Diplomacy II: UST Asian Studies Unites Diplomats, Experts, and Students for an Evening of Dialogue
By Janna Lagman
On Friday, February 21, 2025, distinguished diplomats, professors, alumni, academic staff, and students gathered at the Dr. Robert C. Sy Grand Ballroom in the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes O.P. Building of the University of Santo Tomas for Agents of Diplomacy II, a diplomatic dinner spearheaded by the organizing committee from the Asian Studies Department and the UST Asian Studies Society.
As part of the main event, Her Excellency Undersecretary for Administration at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, His Excellency Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the Philippines Dr. Lai Thai Binh, and His Excellency Chargé d’ Affaires of the Royal Thai Embassy in Manila Mr. Rangsant Srimangkorn were invited to deliver a speech on diplomacy and Philippine relations with Vietnam and Thailand.
Philippine Diplomacy in the Global Stage
On the topic of “The Life of a Filipino Diplomat: Philippine Democracy during the 21st Century,” Asian Studies alumnus H.E. USec. Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega focused on the country’s vision and pursuit of an independent foreign policy while upholding the principle of being “a friend to all and an enemy to none.”
Emphasizing the Philippines’ commitment to national security, economic growth, and the protection of Filipinos overseas—the three pillars of its foreign policy—H.E. USec. De La Vega outlined the key achievements in each area, including the forged trilateral and multilateral partnerships, expansion of the country’s diplomatic presence through embassies and consulates, resolution of conflicts, and promotion of international cooperation, while highlighting the instrumental role the DFA plays as the nation’s public representative on the global stage.
As power dynamics shift in the international arena, global challenges, such as geopolitical tensions, climate change, migration, and technological advancements, emerge, shaping the landscape of global peace and security. In response, H.E. USec. De La Vega underscored the need for holistic and collaborative responses, recognizing the interconnectedness of these pressing issues. She also reaffirmed the vital role of Philippine diplomacy in addressing these challenges in the short, medium, and long term, stating that “small nations like ours will find an opportunity to play a vital role in shaping regional and global agendas.”
“The world today is far more interconnected, and meaningful diplomacy requires the active participation of all nations, regardless of size, in shaping a more stable and just global system,” she added.
While uncertainty in global affairs continues to shape world politics, the spirit of diplomacy that is rooted in international law and mutual respect shall remain constant, underscoring the need for sustained diplomatic efforts to navigate the complexities of international relations.
Vietnam and the Philippines’ Strategic Partnership
H.E. Dr. Lai Thai Binh, in his talk, “Filipino-Vietnamese Diplomacy: Achievements and Challenges Over the Years,” highlighted the evolving relationship between Vietnam and the Philippines, reflecting on past diplomatic milestones while envisioning the future. He emphasized their common aspirations and steadfast commitment to peace and prosperity in the region of Southeast Asia.
As strategic partners, H.E. Dr. Binh discussed the key achievements that shaped the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Vietnam, including the strengthening economic ties, the cooperation in defense and maritime security, and the people-to-people connections. Alongside these successes, he acknowledged the challenges, such as economic barriers, geopolitical pressures, climate change, and pandemic recovery, which further underscores the importance of continued collaboration, explaining that “it provides a robust framework to address these issues.”
Despite the challenges, H.E. Dr. Binh remained optimistic, as he encouraged students to take on an active role in fostering diplomacy and international cooperation. He emphasized the need to invest in the youth, for they will be successors in fostering bilateral relations between the Philippines and Vietnam.
“The duty of Filipino-Vietnamese relations is a testament to what we can achieve when we choose cooperation over conflict and understanding over division,” he stated.
Philippines-Thailand Relations: Built on Mutual Trust and Support
In a message from the Royal Thai Embassy, Manila, H.E. Mr. Rangsant Srimangkorn highlighted the transformative role of diplomacy, inspiring young individuals to become future diplomats, connect nations, and foster international cooperation.
Putting emphasis on the importance of equipping the students with the knowledge, the right attitude, and a deep sense of purpose in diplomacy, H.E. Mr. Srimangkorn explained that being a diplomat is not just a profession, but a mission to build bridges and strengthen ties between nations. Acknowledging the challenges diplomats may face, including difficult negotiations, political tensions, and complex dialogues, he emphasized the necessary qualities to overcome these obstacles. H.E. Mr. Srimangkorn added that diplomacy can take its course through respect, discretion, strategy, and effective communication.
He also shed light on the strong and enduring relations between the Philippines and Thailand, built on mutual trust and support. He urged the audience to “become diplomats who don't just speak but listen,” encouraging meaningful dialogue that fosters connection and understanding.
Aside from the diplomatic speakers, His Excellency Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of State of Qatar in the Republic of the Philippines Mr. Abdulla Salem S. S. Khowar, and Acting Director from the Office of Public Diplomacy at the Department of Foreign Affairs Ms. Joan Macrise C. Corrado were also invited to engage with the students and attendees, offering their insights on diplomacy and international relations.
