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Filipino scholars discuss the Future of Philosophy in the Philippines

Filipino scholars and academics who took part in the recent 25th World Congress of Philosophy at Sapienza University in Rome discussed the ways of moving forward in terms of engaging with the community of Philosophy scholars across the globe. In a shared message to the group, Dr. Jeremiah Joaquin of De La Salle University, who served as president of the Philosophical Association of the Philippines, mentioned the need to be ready for such a task. Dr. Jove Jim Aguas of the University of Santo Tomas, who was PAP President from 2001-2008, drew from the original intent and spirit of the founding of the PAP. The present PAP President, Dr. Ruby Suazo, discussed the By-Laws of the PAP and agreed to the idea of a Code of Conduct for Professionals teaching Philosophy in the country.

Dr. Christopher Ryan Maboloc expressed the primary purpose of the establishment of the SES which is to give teachers from Mindanao the venue to present their papers. In the same vein, Dr. Suazo likewise shared his own thoughts on the role of Phavisminda and other associations. Participants emphasized the importance of sharing a common ground, especially in making philosophy relevant beyond the academe. The Union of Societies and Associations for Philosophy in the Philippines is the umbrella organization for the various groups in the country. Philippine universities and schools that are represented in the Congress include the University of San Carlos, the University of the Philippines in Diliman, De La Salle University, Ateneo de Manila University, UP Manila, Benguet State University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Visayas State University, UP Los Banos, the University of Santo Tomas, and Ateneo de Davao University.

Meanwhile, Dr. Peter Paul Elicor also shared his efforts to help Filipino scholars get the exposure in Europe through their books and other publications. He updated the group about his initiative on the Philosophy for Children. Dr. Suazo suggested that the question regarding Filipino philosophy is not just a matter of identity but one that is grounded in what philosophy teachers and researchers in the Philippines are doing. The Philippines, in fact, has many philosophy scholars who are published in top journals here and abroad. While echoing the value of the identity of each, Dr. Maboloc meanwhile mentioned the importance of leadership to attain the goals of each organization. The next World Congress of Philosophy will be held in Tokyo, Japan in 2028.





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