Geoeconomics has never been more relevant amidst foreign tensions and globalization. Through its flagship initiative, Maki-ALAM, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Economics Research Society (PUP ECONRES) brings this year’s installment with the theme “Trading Power: The Philippines Amid Global Geoeconomic Shifts.” They have gathered the likes of Instructor Cyril Jes S. Aureada, MSEco, and Instructor Lariza Nicole A. Aure, among many others, to tackle the intricate topics revolving around geoeconomics. The event will take place on June 28, 2025, at the PUP Bulwagang Bonifacio (3rd Floor, NARRLC Building).
The Maki-ALAM Lecture Series, launched by PUP ECONRES in 2020, is a flagship initiative designed to provide students and young individuals with a platform to critically engage with pressing socioeconomic and national issues. What began as a webinar series during the height of the pandemic has since evolved into a thriving tradition—and for the first time, it will be held face-to-face.
Over the years, it has invited notable resource speakers to carry the mission of this event, from the likes of Atty. Chel Diokno to Mr. Ludwig Oscuro Federigan, EMDRCM, CBP. The Maki-ALAM series has prided itself on quality discussions that light a bulb in the minds of the student body. Even in its fifth year, the Maki-ALAM Lecture Series continues to uphold its mission of cultivating informed, analytical, and socially conscious perspectives among the youth. Throughout its run, the series has tackled a wide array of timely and relevant topics including gender development, the impact of smart voting on economic progress, responsible mining, and good governance, among others. More than just a lecture series, Maki-ALAM aspires to empower the next generation to become active participants in driving meaningful societal change.
This year, topics such as “Bilateral Agreements: The Philippines’ Economic Credibility” and “Power Play: Navigating Trump’s Trade War” hold undeniable value to the minds of young economists. These push the youth to understand how economic variables factor in with social issues, international relations, and foreign interventions. Both of these topics will answer how the Philippines should respond under these circumstances to better strengthen economic policies and drive sustainable development. With the main topic being geoeconomics, our young economists can expect to explore the advantages and disadvantages of the Philippines as a resource-rich archipelago in not only Southeast Asia but the entire world.
In conclusion, PUP ECONRES’ Maki-ALAM 2025 is a must-attend event for those who aim to expand their economic knowledge outside of their comfort zones. Tackling international economics and geoeconomics is not an easy task; Maki-ALAM 2025 shall serve as a means to introduce these relevant courses to the forefront of every young economist’s mind. It is crucial to equip students with the proper knowledge that coexists with the current state of the world. Through Maki-ALAM 2025, PUP ECONRES wishes to assist in building the future of the Philippine economy.
