Safeguarding peace as the key to sustainable progress

Neil Gregori Garen
Sep 24
2 min read

How does peace shape the future of Filipino families? And why does it matter for our daily lives and opportunities?

For the Philippines, peace is the foundation that allows communities to grow, businesses to thrive, and young people to dream bigger without the fear of instability. It means safer seas for our fishermen, steady jobs for our workers, and opportunities for young professionals to build careers without uncertainty holding them back.

The theme "Safeguarding Peace and Security in the Asia-Pacific" reflects a common aspiration to uphold stability and cooperation in our part of the world, said Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian.

The Chinese Ambassador also stressed that peace and stability in the region are especially precious, and it is a shared responsibility to preserve and safeguard them.

With insights from Vice President of the Center for China and Globalization and Chinese scholar Victor Gao, alongside former Philippine General Hermogenes Esperon Jr., the discussions at the 14th Manila Forum for China–Philippines Relations show how peace brings benefits not just to diplomacy, but also to the lives and opportunities of ordinary Filipinos.

1. Peace creates space for inclusive growth

“A nation cannot project credibility and meaningful diplomacy if struggling internally.” For Filipinos, this means that reducing poverty and strengthening social services allow families and communities to prosper. When growth is inclusive, our country earns greater respect abroad and every Filipino gains a stronger voice in global affairs, said former General Esperon.

2. A stable environment fuels economic opportunities

Peace is not abstract, it is practical. Without security, trade and investment slow down. China’s large market offers potential for Philippine exports, but these opportunities require stability. A peaceful environment helps Filipino workers find stable jobs, supports small businesses, and creates more opportunities for young professionals to succeed, explained Professor Gao.

3. Regional peace builds everyday security

For ordinary Filipinos, safeguarding peace in the Asia-Pacific means safer seas for fishermen, reliable food supply chains for families, and steady conditions for businesses to plan ahead. This link between peace and sustainable development shows how stability in the region directly protects the security we rely on at home.

4. Diplomacy through principle and restraint

Peace is not only the absence of war but also the presence of principle. For Filipinos, this translates into diplomacy based on fairness, collaboration, and restraint. By prioritizing principle over provocation, our leaders ensure that the benefits of international partnerships reach ordinary people, rather than leaving them caught in global rivalries.

5. Energy security powers our future

Part of moving forward with peace and security is preparing for the surge of artificial intelligence and other modern technologies. The Philippines needs to focus on increasing its energy sources to keep pace with progress. Without reliable power, our country cannot fully participate in future industries. Collaboration in areas such as oil exploration at sea could also bring more development to the region. By safeguarding peace, we create the stability needed to build strong energy infrastructure, allowing Filipinos from entrepreneurs to students to harness new opportunities.