Charting the Course: AFICS-PHL Hosts Policy Forum on UN’s Multilateral
Future

The Association of Former International Civil Servants Philippines (AFICS-PHL), in collaboration with the UP School of Economics (UPSE) and the Philippine Center for Economic Development (PCED), successfully hosted a significant Policy Forum on Multilateral Cooperation and the United Nations at a Crossroads. Held on November 19, 2025, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, at the UPSE Auditorium, the forum gathered
distinguished experts and participants to discuss crucial issues shaping multilateralism and the future role of the United Nations. The program commenced with an AFICS Presidential address by Ms. Ma. Alcestis Abrera Mangahas followed by the presentation on Celebrating the UN at Eighty by Mr. Arnaud Peral, UN Resident Coordinator- Philippines. These set the stage for an afternoon of critical dialogue.

The highpoint of the forum was the keynote address delivered by H.E. Delia Domingo-Albert, Former Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Her address provided an authoritative and insightful perspective, followed by a robust open forum that allowed participants to engage directly on global cooperation dynamics.

The Panel and Forum Segment, skillfully moderated by Dr. Federico Macaranas, featured a dynamic discussion with three esteemed experts: Prof. Aries A. Arugay, PhD (UP Department of Political Science), Dean Joy V. Abrenica, PhD (UP School of Economics), and Dr. Mary Racelis (Ateneo de Manila University). Each scholar shared their unique views on the challenges facing multilateralism. Dr. Macaranas then guided the session into a comprehensive Open Forum where all three experts served as a panel to collectively address audience questions. This was followed by a special intervention from Former Ambassador Evan Garcia, who delivered his perspectives on strengthening multilateral cooperation.

The event concluded with Dr. Macaranas providing a final summary of key takeaways and reinforcing the critical dialogue on the UN system before the final adjournment.