The UP Asian Center will hold the 2025 Graduate Student Conference: The Philippines in a Multipolar World on 31 May 2025 at the GT-Toyota Asian Center Auditorium, UP Asian Center. The event is free and open to the public. Seating is first come, first served. Walk-ins are welcome, but participants are encouraged to register online.
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
Current narratives in international affairs predominantly emphasize strategic competition, geopolitical rivalry, and the new Cold War between the US and China. The China-US trade war during the first Trump administration and the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed the emergence of concepts such as decoupling, de-risking, and supply chain resilience, driven by over-dependence on these two largest economies in the world. This situation highlighted the urgency for states to exercise greater agency and diversify their economic relationships and partnerships. For example, the EU and ASEAN—comprised of middle and small powers—have collectively strengthened their engagement with one another to hedge against uncertainties. In addition, the increasing use of economic sanctions and leverage is compelling nations to reduce their vulnerabilities and reliance on others. It is not surprising that the BRICS economic bloc has accelerated its expansion to include more non-Western countries. With a notable resurgence in protectionist and neo-mercantilist practices, along with an intensifying technological race (i.e., AI, robotics, electric vehicles, and autonomous cars) driven by geopolitics, how will the Philippines navigate these fluid changes in power structures and global realignments?
ABOUT THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER
PATRICIO ABINALES, Ph.D.
Professor, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Dr. Patricio “Jojo” Abinales grew up on the northwestern side of the Philippine island of Mindanao. He graduated with a degree in History from the University of the Philippines-Diliman, and a Ph.D. in Government and Southeast Asian Studies from Cornell University. He taught at the Department of Political Science at Ohio University from 1997 to 1999 before moving to the Center for Southeast Asian Studies at Kyoto University in 2000. From 2010-2011, Jojo was a visiting scholar at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington DC, where he did research on the political economy of US economic assistance in Muslim Mindanao. In 2011 he joined the faculty of the Asian Studies Program at UH-Manoa. Apart from his academic work, Jojo also writes political commentaries and book reviews for two e-magazines – Rappler in the Philippines, and Positively Filipino, based in San Francisco. Read more.
Taken from: University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. n.d. "Patricio ABINALES, Ph.D. – Department of Asian Studies." https://manoa.hawaii.edu/asianstudies/people/patricio-abinales-ph-d/.
ABOUT THE PRESENTATIONS
PAPER PRESENTATIONS
The paper presentations are composed of around 70 papers that deal with various topics on the Philippines and Asia.
SESSION A | 10:15 AM - 11:45 AM | 5 Panels
PANEL A1: PHILIPPINE FOREIGN RELATIONS
A1.1. Calculating Risks and Opportunities: A Bayesian Inference Analysis in the Philippines' Foreign Policy in the Face of a Multipolar World
Carlo Niño R. Bacsarsa, Master in International Affairs
A1.2. Navigating Suspicion: The Alleged Espionage Incident and Its Ramifications for Philippine-China Academic Partnerships
Elan Karsten H. Castañares, MA Philippine Studies
A1.3. Lights, Camera, Diplomacy: The Role of Philippine Cinema in Promoting Cultural Diplomacy in Japan
Shaime Faith B. Latap, Master in Philippine Studies
A1.4. Minilateralism: A Sustainable Philippine Foreign Policy Strategy?
King Dranreb C. Barchita, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
PANEL A2: POLITICS AND GOVERNANCE
A2.1. Bagong Pilipinas, Bagong Mukha!: Isang Pagmumuni-muni sa Prosesong Elektoral at Pangangampanya sa Pilipinas mula sa Patolohikal na Pananaw ni Rizal
Marvin R. Tenecio, MA Asian Studies
A2.2. The Geopolitics Behind Megaprojects - The Case of Ibu Kota Nusantara, Indonesia's New Capital
Kevin E. Bautista, MA Asian Studies
A2.3. Gotong-royong and Community Resilience: Traditional DRRM Practices in Indonesia
Leomar P. Requejo, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
A2.4. Advancing a Green Foreign Policy: Philippine Approaches to Resilience in a Multipolar World
Janine R. Lardizabal, Master in International Affairs
PANEL A3: HERITAGE, ART, AND PERFORMANCE
A3.1. Filipino Art as Mirror: The Illuminating Dawn of Philippine Social Realism (1976-1978)
Paul Alexander Y. Morales, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
A3.2. Ang Abot-Kayang Pagpapalabas:Pagsusuri sa Pagtatanghal ng Isang Pangkat Panteatrong Sosyo-Politikal Gamit ang Dalumat ng Loob ni Albert Alejo
Jerome D. Ignacio, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
A3.3. Ahon: Mga Siklo ng Pagbangon, Pagbanyuhay, at Paglaya bilang Estetika ng Pag-akda ng Dula ng Tanghalang Banyuhay Incorporated (TBI)
Ian Jay B. Formacion, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
A3.4. Post-Earthquake Heritage Restoration in Bohol, Philippines and Kathmandu Valley, Nepal: A Comparative Study of National Responses and Cultural Resilience
Christine Joy L. Miguel, MA Philippine Studies
PANEL A4: LANGUAGE
A4.1. Words that Bind: Exploring Nationalism through Asian Linguistic Lenses (The Case of the Philippines and South Korea)
Helweena B. Sadorra, Master in Asian Studies
A4.2. Ang Pagbaybay ng Bathala: A Comparative Analysis of Indigenous Writing Systems of the Pre-Colonial Philippines and Early South Korea (Unang Kabanata: Ang Pagkabuhay)
Chynna Louise D. Riego, Master in Asian Studies
A4.3. The Coloniality of English and Its Impact on Linguistic Specialization in Trade: A Study on Trade Language Use Among Philippine Trade Representatives
Kim Vincent D. Tumala, Master in Asian Studies
A4.4. ABYÁNG-ABYANGÁN: Mixedness bilang salik sa Nanganganib na Wika ng Katutubong Bulos sa Bayan ng Doña Remedios Trinidad (DRT), Bulacan
Jay-Mar G. Luza, Ph.D. in Philippine Studies
PANEL A5: HEALTH AND AGING
A5.1. Navigating Local and National Identities in Healthcare: A Case Study of Makati City Residents' Access to Healthcare Programs
Julyan Ira “Gab” B. Kabigting, MA Philippine Studies
A5.2. Does PhilHealth Protect Foreign Workers? - A Critical Analysis of the Philippine Public Health Insurance System in Its Implications on Governing Migration from Japan
Takashi L. Ota, Ph.D. in Philippine Studies
A5.3. From Myth to Multipolar Dialogue: A Cultural-Critical Study of Ubasute-yama and the Constructions of Aging Across Asia
Ma. Dorothy A. Mananghaya, Master in Asian Studies
SESSION B | 12:45 AM - 2:15 PM | 5 Panels
PANEL B1: SECURITY AND FOREIGN RELATIONS
B1.1. Cooperation Under Hegemonic Competitions: Developments in the Philippines-Japan Security Relations in the Face of the West Philippine Sea Dispute
Andrean Louie A. Lopez, MA Political Science
B1.2. Breaking Down China’s Narratives on the Philippines’ Security Relations with Japan: A Thematic Analysis
Axl Ross J. Tumanut, MA Philippine Studies
B1.3. Philippine State Behavior on Refugee Acceptance: An Analysis of Policy, Practice, and Its Regional Implications in Southeast Asia
Rogue S. Evangelio, MA Philippine Studies
B1.4. Navigating the Rough Seas: The Development of the Philippine Blue Economy amidst Geopolitical Challenges and Climate Change
Angela Gabrielle G. Jabalde, Master in International Affairs
PANEL B2: TECHNOLOGY AND TRADE
B2.1. Navigating an Emerging Multi-Polar World Order: Can the Philippines Leverage Strategic Opportunities in Trump 2.0’s Tariff Policies?
Adriel M. Paglinawan, MA Asian Studies
B2.2. The Philippines’ Technology Sector in the Era of Weaponized Interdependence: Vulnerabilities and Opportunities for Value Chain Resilience
Dara Janelle V. Eoy, Master in International Affairs
B2.3. The US-China Tech War: Boon Or Bane For The Philippine Semiconductor Sector?
Eleanor R. De Guzman, Master in International Affairs
B2.4. Is It The Same Banana?: Comparative Case Study Of The Philippines And Vietnam's Banana Export Strategies Toward China
Vivienne Audrey P. Angeles, Master in Philippine Studies
PANEL B3: HISTORY AND IDENTITY
B3.1. Six Coins to the Shogun: Cultural Depictions of Sanada Nobushige (Yukimura) as an Anti-Tokugawa Symbol in Edo Period Entertainment
Filz Patrick I. Dureza, MA Asian Studies
B3.2. Looking Back at Empire: Filipino Balik-titig in American and Japanese Wartime Newsreels (1943-1946)
John Adrianfer Atienza, MA Philippine Studies
B3.3. Japan through Early Foreign Texts: A Historical Survey of Perceptions in Antiquity
Lito S. Lacaba Jr., MA Asian Studies
B3.4. The Philippines in the Asian Century: Will We Start Speaking Chinese?
Aldrin B. Rodriguez, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
PANEL B4: MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS
B4.1. Pakikisama: The Process and Language of Beat Reporting in the Philippines
Marie Carisa U. Ordinario, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
B4.2. Perceptions of Gen-Z on Mixedness of Filipino Athletes on Television
Jefferson I. Barrocamo, MA Philippine Studies
B4.3. Humor and Mixedness in Filipino-American Lives: A Case Study on TikTok Content Creator Nurse John
Paola Louise Rico, MA Philippine Studies
B4.4. Bamboo Against the Current: Culturally Intelligent Storytelling in a Multipolar Media World
Edgar N. Legaspi, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
PANEL B5: ASIAN COMMUNITIES AND SOCIETY
B5.1. Crossing Iran: Exploring the Contemporary Role of International Christian Organizations in the Resilience and Growth of Christian Communities in Iran
Khorshid P. Mahbouby Pirdehy, Master in Asian Studies
B5.2. The Japanese Communist Party’s Struggle For A “Socialist-Communist” Society in the 21st Century and the Foreign Worker Question
Elijah Joshua Benjamin D.F. Aban, Master in Asian Studies
B5.3. Interrogating Ancient ‘Refugee’: Paekche Refugees in 7th Century Japan
John Carlos B. Duque, MA History
B5.4. Badi and Climate Resiliency: Investigating Indigenous Malay Knowledge Systems and Western Climate Resiliency Paradigms
Jasmine R. Mallo, Master in International Affairs
SESSION C | 2:15 PM - 3:45 PM | 5 Panels
PANEL C1: ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY
C1.1. Nation-Branding as a Tool for Economic Development: What the Philippines Can Learn from Japan
Yvanna Arianne M. Ancheta, Master in Asian Studies
C1.2. Navigating Technological Bifurcation: A Case Study of the Philippines’ Hedging Strategy Between Chinese and Western ICT Providers
Alexandra Marish P. Ilac, MA Asian Studies
C1.3. Beyond Business: Exploring the FFCCCII’s Role in China-Philippines Diplomacy Through Soft Power
Joshua Russel S. Iringan, MA Asian Studies
C1.4. Economic Nationalism and the Pathway to Development: Experience from Malaysia and the Philippines
Jennie Lyn C. Reyes, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
PANEL C2: PHILIPPINE CULTURE AND SOCIETY
C2.1. Filipino Solidarity Actions for Palestine: In the Philippines and Diaspora (from 7 October 2023 Incursion until the January 2025 Ceasefire)
Danielle Mae G. Riña, Master in Philippine Studies
C2.2. Philippines Studies in Relation to Geopolitics and the Global Balance of Power
Jose Mario D. De Vega, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
C2.3. Not A Vessel But The Ocean: The Philippines as a Transnation
Kristine S. Calleja, MA Asian Studies
C2.4. "On Alexander Dugin and Nick Land: An Invitation to Consider Their Implications in Filipino Social Theory and Practice in the Age of Multipolarity, the Post-COVID, and the Post-Liberal World"
Allen Casey S. Gumiran, MA Philippine Studies
PANEL C3: FOOD, RELIGION, AND CULTURE IN ASIA
C3.1. Halal in the Philippines: Emerging Blended Gastronomic Culture of Permissibility and Preference
Soghra Mahbouby Pirdehy, Master in Asian Studies
C3.2. Cooking Up Connections: The Role of Iloilo City’s Gastro-Diplomacy in the Philippines’ Cultural Relations with East Asia
Philip Caesar C. Villaflor, MA Philippine Studies
C3.3. Perceptions of Holy Week Superstitions Among Filipino Gen Z Catholics in Pidigan, Abra
Gabrielle Akeem C. Precia, MA Philippine Studies
C3.4. Folk Catholicism in Quiapo: Exploring the Syncretic Material Culture and Visual Symbols of Catholicism and Indigenous Spirituality
Raymond S. Presado, MA Philippine Studies
PANEL C4: MEDIA, CULTURE, AND GENDER
C4.1. From Fear to Hope: Weaving the Emotional Plot of a More-than-Human World in Genaro Gojo Cruz’ Ang Dagat na Kumukuha ng mga Tatay
Joycel Vincent V. Dabalos, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
C4.2. To Love or Not to (Boys') Love?: Interplay of Institutional Pathways and Queer Identities in BL Media in the Philippines and Thailand
Erwin James A. dela Cruz, MA Philippine Studies
C4.3. Beyond the Margins of Power: Independent Publishing as an Alternative Space for Literary Production in Contemporary Asia
Andre Alfonso R. Gutierrez, MA Asian Studies
PANEL C5: FAMILY AND IDENTITY
C5.1. A Critical Narrative Analysis of the Lived Experiences of Filipinos in Conducting Family History Research
Jericho Daniel DV. Igdanes, MA Philippine Studies
C5.2. Tangled Branches, Mixed Roots: Navigating Mixed Identities among Filipino Stepchildren
Jan Harvey B. Bonzon, Master of Library and Information Science
C5.3. Theorizing Japaneseness in Southeast Asia: A Philippine-Focused Review of Japanese Diasporic and Identity Discourses
Michiko Ann N. Acaylar, MA Asian Studies
C5.4. Vlogging the Mixed Self: Exploring Mixed Identity Formation Among Japanese-Filipino Children (JFC) in Japinoy Family Vlogs
Mary Joy Sawa-an, Ph.D. in Philippine Studies
SESSION A | 10:15 AM - 11:45 AM | 5 Panels
PANEL A1: PHILIPPINE FOREIGN RELATIONS
A1.1. Calculating Risks and Opportunities: A Bayesian Inference Analysis in the Philippines' Foreign Policy in the Face of a Multipolar World
Carlo Niño R. Bacsarsa, Master in International Affairs
A1.2. Navigating Suspicion: The Alleged Espionage Incident and Its Ramifications for Philippine-China Academic Partnerships
Elan Karsten H. Castañares, MA Philippine Studies
A1.3. Lights, Camera, Diplomacy: The Role of Philippine Cinema in Promoting Cultural Diplomacy in Japan
Shaime Faith B. Latap, Master in Philippine Studies
A1.4. Minilateralism: A Sustainable Philippine Foreign Policy Strategy?
King Dranreb C. Barchita, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
PANEL A2: POLITICS AND GOVERNANCE
A2.1. Bagong Pilipinas, Bagong Mukha!: Isang Pagmumuni-muni sa Prosesong Elektoral at Pangangampanya sa Pilipinas mula sa Patolohikal na Pananaw ni Rizal
Marvin R. Tenecio, MA Asian Studies
A2.2. The Geopolitics Behind Megaprojects - The Case of Ibu Kota Nusantara, Indonesia's New Capital
Kevin E. Bautista, MA Asian Studies
A2.3. Gotong-royong and Community Resilience: Traditional DRRM Practices in Indonesia
Leomar P. Requejo, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
A2.4. Advancing a Green Foreign Policy: Philippine Approaches to Resilience in a Multipolar World
Janine R. Lardizabal, Master in International Affairs
PANEL A3: HERITAGE, ART, AND PERFORMANCE
A3.1. Filipino Art as Mirror: The Illuminating Dawn of Philippine Social Realism (1976-1978)
Paul Alexander Y. Morales, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
A3.2. Ang Abot-Kayang Pagpapalabas:Pagsusuri sa Pagtatanghal ng Isang Pangkat Panteatrong Sosyo-Politikal Gamit ang Dalumat ng Loob ni Albert Alejo
Jerome D. Ignacio, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
A3.3. Ahon: Mga Siklo ng Pagbangon, Pagbanyuhay, at Paglaya bilang Estetika ng Pag-akda ng Dula ng Tanghalang Banyuhay Incorporated (TBI)
Ian Jay B. Formacion, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
A3.4. Post-Earthquake Heritage Restoration in Bohol, Philippines and Kathmandu Valley, Nepal: A Comparative Study of National Responses and Cultural Resilience
Christine Joy L. Miguel, MA Philippine Studies
PANEL A4: LANGUAGE
A4.1. Words that Bind: Exploring Nationalism through Asian Linguistic Lenses (The Case of the Philippines and South Korea)
Helweena B. Sadorra, Master in Asian Studies
A4.2. Ang Pagbaybay ng Bathala: A Comparative Analysis of Indigenous Writing Systems of the Pre-Colonial Philippines and Early South Korea (Unang Kabanata: Ang Pagkabuhay)
Chynna Louise D. Riego, Master in Asian Studies
A4.3. The Coloniality of English and Its Impact on Linguistic Specialization in Trade: A Study on Trade Language Use Among Philippine Trade Representatives
Kim Vincent D. Tumala, Master in Asian Studies
A4.4. ABYÁNG-ABYANGÁN: Mixedness bilang salik sa Nanganganib na Wika ng Katutubong Bulos sa Bayan ng Doña Remedios Trinidad (DRT), Bulacan
Jay-Mar G. Luza, Ph.D. in Philippine Studies
PANEL A5: HEALTH AND AGING
A5.1. Navigating Local and National Identities in Healthcare: A Case Study of Makati City Residents' Access to Healthcare Programs
Julyan Ira “Gab” B. Kabigting, MA Philippine Studies
A5.2. Does PhilHealth Protect Foreign Workers? - A Critical Analysis of the Philippine Public Health Insurance System in Its Implications on Governing Migration from Japan
Takashi L. Ota, Ph.D. in Philippine Studies
A5.3. From Myth to Multipolar Dialogue: A Cultural-Critical Study of Ubasute-yama and the Constructions of Aging Across Asia
Ma. Dorothy A. Mananghaya, Master in Asian Studies
SESSION B | 12:45 AM - 2:15 PM | 5 Panels
PANEL B1: SECURITY AND FOREIGN RELATIONS
B1.1. Cooperation Under Hegemonic Competitions: Developments in the Philippines-Japan Security Relations in the Face of the West Philippine Sea Dispute
Andrean Louie A. Lopez, MA Political Science
B1.2. Breaking Down China’s Narratives on the Philippines’ Security Relations with Japan: A Thematic Analysis
Axl Ross J. Tumanut, MA Philippine Studies
B1.3. Philippine State Behavior on Refugee Acceptance: An Analysis of Policy, Practice, and Its Regional Implications in Southeast Asia
Rogue S. Evangelio, MA Philippine Studies
B1.4. Navigating the Rough Seas: The Development of the Philippine Blue Economy amidst Geopolitical Challenges and Climate Change
Angela Gabrielle G. Jabalde, Master in International Affairs
PANEL B2: TECHNOLOGY AND TRADE
B2.1. Navigating an Emerging Multi-Polar World Order: Can the Philippines Leverage Strategic Opportunities in Trump 2.0’s Tariff Policies?
Adriel M. Paglinawan, MA Asian Studies
B2.2. The Philippines’ Technology Sector in the Era of Weaponized Interdependence: Vulnerabilities and Opportunities for Value Chain Resilience
Dara Janelle V. Eoy, Master in International Affairs
B2.3. The US-China Tech War: Boon Or Bane For The Philippine Semiconductor Sector?
Eleanor R. De Guzman, Master in International Affairs
B2.4. Is It The Same Banana?: Comparative Case Study Of The Philippines And Vietnam's Banana Export Strategies Toward China
Vivienne Audrey P. Angeles, Master in Philippine Studies
PANEL B3: HISTORY AND IDENTITY
B3.1. Six Coins to the Shogun: Cultural Depictions of Sanada Nobushige (Yukimura) as an Anti-Tokugawa Symbol in Edo Period Entertainment
Filz Patrick I. Dureza, MA Asian Studies
B3.2. Looking Back at Empire: Filipino Balik-titig in American and Japanese Wartime Newsreels (1943-1946)
John Adrianfer Atienza, MA Philippine Studies
B3.3. Japan through Early Foreign Texts: A Historical Survey of Perceptions in Antiquity
Lito S. Lacaba Jr., MA Asian Studies
B3.4. The Philippines in the Asian Century: Will We Start Speaking Chinese?
Aldrin B. Rodriguez, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
PANEL B4: MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS
B4.1. Pakikisama: The Process and Language of Beat Reporting in the Philippines
Marie Carisa U. Ordinario, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
B4.2. Perceptions of Gen-Z on Mixedness of Filipino Athletes on Television
Jefferson I. Barrocamo, MA Philippine Studies
B4.3. Humor and Mixedness in Filipino-American Lives: A Case Study on TikTok Content Creator Nurse John
Paola Louise Rico, MA Philippine Studies
B4.4. Bamboo Against the Current: Culturally Intelligent Storytelling in a Multipolar Media World
Edgar N. Legaspi, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
PANEL B5: ASIAN COMMUNITIES AND SOCIETY
B5.1. Crossing Iran: Exploring the Contemporary Role of International Christian Organizations in the Resilience and Growth of Christian Communities in Iran
Khorshid P. Mahbouby Pirdehy, Master in Asian Studies
B5.2. The Japanese Communist Party’s Struggle For A “Socialist-Communist” Society in the 21st Century and the Foreign Worker Question
Elijah Joshua Benjamin D.F. Aban, Master in Asian Studies
B5.3. Interrogating Ancient ‘Refugee’: Paekche Refugees in 7th Century Japan
John Carlos B. Duque, MA History
B5.4. Badi and Climate Resiliency: Investigating Indigenous Malay Knowledge Systems and Western Climate Resiliency Paradigms
Jasmine R. Mallo, Master in International Affairs
SESSION C | 2:15 PM - 3:45 PM | 5 Panels
PANEL C1: ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY
C1.1. Nation-Branding as a Tool for Economic Development: What the Philippines Can Learn from Japan
Yvanna Arianne M. Ancheta, Master in Asian Studies
C1.2. Navigating Technological Bifurcation: A Case Study of the Philippines’ Hedging Strategy Between Chinese and Western ICT Providers
Alexandra Marish P. Ilac, MA Asian Studies
C1.3. Beyond Business: Exploring the FFCCCII’s Role in China-Philippines Diplomacy Through Soft Power
Joshua Russel S. Iringan, MA Asian Studies
C1.4. Economic Nationalism and the Pathway to Development: Experience from Malaysia and the Philippines
Jennie Lyn C. Reyes, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
PANEL C2: PHILIPPINE CULTURE AND SOCIETY
C2.1. Filipino Solidarity Actions for Palestine: In the Philippines and Diaspora (from 7 October 2023 Incursion until the January 2025 Ceasefire)
Danielle Mae G. Riña, Master in Philippine Studies
C2.2. Philippines Studies in Relation to Geopolitics and the Global Balance of Power
Jose Mario D. De Vega, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
C2.3. Not A Vessel But The Ocean: The Philippines as a Transnation
Kristine S. Calleja, MA Asian Studies
C2.4. "On Alexander Dugin and Nick Land: An Invitation to Consider Their Implications in Filipino Social Theory and Practice in the Age of Multipolarity, the Post-COVID, and the Post-Liberal World"
Allen Casey S. Gumiran, MA Philippine Studies
PANEL C3: FOOD, RELIGION, AND CULTURE IN ASIA
C3.1. Halal in the Philippines: Emerging Blended Gastronomic Culture of Permissibility and Preference
Soghra Mahbouby Pirdehy, Master in Asian Studies
C3.2. Cooking Up Connections: The Role of Iloilo City’s Gastro-Diplomacy in the Philippines’ Cultural Relations with East Asia
Philip Caesar C. Villaflor, MA Philippine Studies
C3.3. Perceptions of Holy Week Superstitions Among Filipino Gen Z Catholics in Pidigan, Abra
Gabrielle Akeem C. Precia, MA Philippine Studies
C3.4. Folk Catholicism in Quiapo: Exploring the Syncretic Material Culture and Visual Symbols of Catholicism and Indigenous Spirituality
Raymond S. Presado, MA Philippine Studies
PANEL C4: MEDIA, CULTURE, AND GENDER
C4.1. From Fear to Hope: Weaving the Emotional Plot of a More-than-Human World in Genaro Gojo Cruz’ Ang Dagat na Kumukuha ng mga Tatay
Joycel Vincent V. Dabalos, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
C4.2. To Love or Not to (Boys') Love?: Interplay of Institutional Pathways and Queer Identities in BL Media in the Philippines and Thailand
Erwin James A. dela Cruz, MA Philippine Studies
C4.3. Beyond the Margins of Power: Independent Publishing as an Alternative Space for Literary Production in Contemporary Asia
Andre Alfonso R. Gutierrez, MA Asian Studies
PANEL C5: FAMILY AND IDENTITY
C5.1. A Critical Narrative Analysis of the Lived Experiences of Filipinos in Conducting Family History Research
Jericho Daniel DV. Igdanes, MA Philippine Studies
C5.2. Tangled Branches, Mixed Roots: Navigating Mixed Identities among Filipino Stepchildren
Jan Harvey B. Bonzon, Master of Library and Information Science
C5.3. Theorizing Japaneseness in Southeast Asia: A Philippine-Focused Review of Japanese Diasporic and Identity Discourses
Michiko Ann N. Acaylar, MA Asian Studies
C5.4. Vlogging the Mixed Self: Exploring Mixed Identity Formation Among Japanese-Filipino Children (JFC) in Japinoy Family Vlogs
Mary Joy Sawa-an, Ph.D. in Philippine Studies
POSTER PRESENTATIONS
The paper presentations are composed of around 70 papers that deal with various topics on the Philippines and Asia.
SESSION D: Policy, Foreign Relations, and Security | 4:00 - 5:30 PM
D1. South China Sea: An Evolving Legal Battlefield
Andrea Ilyana Borja, Master in Asian Studies
D2. Rethinking the West Philippine Sea Policy Towards a Sustainable Fisheries Cooperation
Shane Yumikura, MA Asian Studies
D3. Non-Alignment in the 20th Century: The Nature and Evolution of India’s Foreign Policy Toward the US under Prime Minister Modi’s Second Term 2019-2024
Shalom Hechanova, Master in Philippine Studies
D4. Strengthening Philippine-Uruguay Foreign Relations: From 2017 to Mid-2025
Danielle Mae Riña, Master in Philippine Studies
D5. Democracy in Action: Voting Behavior and Political Accountability in South Korea and the Philippines
Chynna Louise Riego, Master in Asian Studies
D6. Mobilizing the Margins: Military Conscription and Baiyue Integration in the Qin Dynasty
Joshua Russel Iringan, MA Asian Studies
SESSION E: Migration, Diaspora, and Identity | 4:00 - 5:30 PM
E1. Escaping the North, Adapting to the South: Identity and Belonging Among North Korean Migrants
Danna Marie Sister, Master in Asian Studies
E2. Korean Stowaways and Human (In)securities in Early Postwar South Korea and Japan
John Carlos Duque, Master of Arts in History
E3. Integrating the Vietnamese: A Comparative Analysis of Local Citizenship Regimes for Vietnamese Refugees in Japan and the Philippines
Nicole Margaret Villabroza, Master of Arts in History
E4. Language Shift and Integration: Filipino Migrants’ Linguistic Adaptation in Japan During COVID-19 Pandemic
Lena Ruth Pinote, Master in Asian Studies
E5. Discovering Quality of Life Beyond Employment: Life Satisfaction of Skilled Filipino Migrant Workers in Japan
John Paul Perez, Master in Asian Studies
E6. Everyday Participation in Multicultural Japan: Filipino-Japanese Returnees as Local Citizens
Michael Angelo Sarabia, Master in Asian Studies
SESSION F: Media and Society | 4:00 - 5:30 PM
F1. Pamamahayag bilang Pakikipagkapwa: Pagdalumat sa Peryodismong Pilipino
Marie Carisa Ordinario, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
F2. Until Then, We Create: Philippine Video Games For National Development
Darleine Khristien Bautista, Master in Asian Studies
F3. Assessing AI Adoption in the Philippine Creatives Industry: Perspectives and Policy Recommendations
Michael Angelo Sarabia, Master in Asian Studies
F4. Navigating Climate Adaptation Amidst Global Commitments to 2030: The US Aid Freeze and Coastal Resilience in the Philippines
Danica Mae Cereno, Melkizedek Acosta, Von Albert Sumergido, Master in Asian Studies
F5. The Role of UPD OIL in Enhancing Philippine Foreign Diplomacy through Inbound International Scholars and Exchanges
Chelsea Anne Berganio, Master in Philippine Studies
SESSION D: Policy, Foreign Relations, and Security | 4:00 - 5:30 PM
D1. South China Sea: An Evolving Legal Battlefield
Andrea Ilyana Borja, Master in Asian Studies
D2. Rethinking the West Philippine Sea Policy Towards a Sustainable Fisheries Cooperation
Shane Yumikura, MA Asian Studies
D3. Non-Alignment in the 20th Century: The Nature and Evolution of India’s Foreign Policy Toward the US under Prime Minister Modi’s Second Term 2019-2024
Shalom Hechanova, Master in Philippine Studies
D4. Strengthening Philippine-Uruguay Foreign Relations: From 2017 to Mid-2025
Danielle Mae Riña, Master in Philippine Studies
D5. Democracy in Action: Voting Behavior and Political Accountability in South Korea and the Philippines
Chynna Louise Riego, Master in Asian Studies
D6. Mobilizing the Margins: Military Conscription and Baiyue Integration in the Qin Dynasty
Joshua Russel Iringan, MA Asian Studies
SESSION E: Migration, Diaspora, and Identity | 4:00 - 5:30 PM
E1. Escaping the North, Adapting to the South: Identity and Belonging Among North Korean Migrants
Danna Marie Sister, Master in Asian Studies
E2. Korean Stowaways and Human (In)securities in Early Postwar South Korea and Japan
John Carlos Duque, Master of Arts in History
E3. Integrating the Vietnamese: A Comparative Analysis of Local Citizenship Regimes for Vietnamese Refugees in Japan and the Philippines
Nicole Margaret Villabroza, Master of Arts in History
E4. Language Shift and Integration: Filipino Migrants’ Linguistic Adaptation in Japan During COVID-19 Pandemic
Lena Ruth Pinote, Master in Asian Studies
E5. Discovering Quality of Life Beyond Employment: Life Satisfaction of Skilled Filipino Migrant Workers in Japan
John Paul Perez, Master in Asian Studies
E6. Everyday Participation in Multicultural Japan: Filipino-Japanese Returnees as Local Citizens
Michael Angelo Sarabia, Master in Asian Studies
SESSION F: Media and Society | 4:00 - 5:30 PM
F1. Pamamahayag bilang Pakikipagkapwa: Pagdalumat sa Peryodismong Pilipino
Marie Carisa Ordinario, Ph.D. Philippine Studies
F2. Until Then, We Create: Philippine Video Games For National Development
Darleine Khristien Bautista, Master in Asian Studies
F3. Assessing AI Adoption in the Philippine Creatives Industry: Perspectives and Policy Recommendations
Michael Angelo Sarabia, Master in Asian Studies
F4. Navigating Climate Adaptation Amidst Global Commitments to 2030: The US Aid Freeze and Coastal Resilience in the Philippines
Danica Mae Cereno, Melkizedek Acosta, Von Albert Sumergido, Master in Asian Studies
F5. The Role of UPD OIL in Enhancing Philippine Foreign Diplomacy through Inbound International Scholars and Exchanges
Chelsea Anne Berganio, Master in Philippine Studies
CONSTANCIO MAGLANA BEST PAPER AWARD
Oral presenters who will submit their full paper on or before 15 June 2025 are qualified for the Constancio Maglana Best Paper Award. Winners will be announced via the UP Asian Center's official platforms on 30 June 2025. The best paper will receive a five-thousand-peso cash prize (PhP 5,000).
ABOUT THE ORGANIZERS
In celebration of its 70th founding anniversary, this lecture is organized by the UP Asian Center. For inquiries, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 891-8500 loc. 3586.
