Brian Poe Llamanzares, FPJ Panday Bayanihan First Nominee and a National Defense College graduate, participated in a pivotal forum on national security and development.

The forum, “Equal Voices, Equal Choices: Setting a Robust Security and Development Agenda for the 20th Congress and Beyond,” convened on April 22, 2025, in Intramuros, Manila, under the auspices of the National Defense College of the Philippines Alumni Association. Discussions centered on creating a comprehensive national security strategy for the Philippines.

Representing the NDC alumni, Poe shared his longstanding passion for national security, honed through extensive study.

His academic background includes a Georgetown University counterterrorism certificate, a National Defense College Master’s in National Security, and NICA counterintelligence training.

Poe’s experience also encompasses roles on the Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board and the Aviation Security Group Advisory Council, providing a strong foundation for his insights.

Debate arose over a robust national security strategy, with former Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales advocating compulsory five-year military service to bolster self-defense capabilities.

Poe’s contributions focused on economic and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. He highlighted the Philippines’ economic dependence on China, emphasizing the risks of trade disruptions, particularly in energy and agriculture.

He also stressed the urgent need for improved cybersecurity, advocating for investment in local talent and leveraging programs like TESDA’s internationally recognized cybersecurity training.

Maritime security and responsible government funding were emphasized by panelists Rear Admiral Rommel Wong (Ret.) and Relly Jose. The forum concluded with a shared commitment to essential reforms and proactive measures for national security.

At the end of the forum, the topics were well discussed, and many valuable insights were gained from the panelists. The engaging discussions sparked meaningful conversations among attendees, fostering a collaborative atmosphere aimed at addressing the challenges facing national security and governance.

The forum concluded with a shared commitment to advocate for essential reforms and proactive measures to ensure the nation’s safety and well-being.