FEU Public Intellectual Lecture Series | Prof. Rommel Banlaoi and Prof. Herman Kraft

The session is introduced as part of the Public Intellectual Lecture Series by Far Eastern University, focusing on human security from both national and international perspectives. The hosts introduce Dr. Ramel Banlawi and Professor Hermann Kraft, noting the need for a working definition of human security, considering both micro and macro levels of society.

Dr. Hermann Kraft explores the origin of the human security concept introduced by the 1994 UN Human Development Report, emphasizing the shift from state-centric national security to a focus on individuals' security. He notes this change was in response to state-induced insecurities and underscores the broader meaning of security, including economic and environmental components, beyond mere physical safety.

Prof. Kraft further explains how human security requires governments to build capacities that go beyond military and political institutions. There's an emphasis on providing a good quality of life for citizens, which includes addressing economic, environmental, and political security. He also mentions the Philippines' shift in security policy paralleling international human security concepts.

Dr. Ramel Banlawi discusses the comprehensive nature of human security, highlighting that threats come not only from external states but also from within, like poverty and governance issues. He distinguishes between traditional state-centric security and non-traditional human-centric security, pointing out that the latter covers issues like terrorism and organized crime.

The conversation shifts to specific issues affecting Filipino human security. Poverty is highlighted as a primary concern influencing economic and food security. Dr. Banlawi talks about measuring security through indices, focusing on fulfilling basic human needs like livelihood and education as indicators of security. Safety and quality of life are emphasized as essential elements.

The dialogue addresses the role of state responsibility, not only in economic but also in political security. Emphasis is placed on creating a secure living environment, with access to education and political rights, needed for good governance. The state's capacity to meet these needs is crucial for human security, transcending traditional national security paradigms.

Dr. Banlawi outlines government measures to address security issues like poverty, terrorism, and insurgency, highlighting peace talks with groups like the Moro National Liberation Front. He mentions ongoing armed conflicts as challenges, with the government's comprehensive approach involving military action and economic development plans to assist affected regions.

The topic dives deeper into regional conflicts in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao, where multiple groups cause ongoing instability. Dr. Banlawi explains that while peace agreements exist, challenges remain with new rebel and terrorist recruitments. Efforts to develop the region economically are discussed, emphasizing the interplay of peace and security in enabling development.

They discuss the critical link between peace and development, positing that lack of peace increases individuals' insecurity and hampers national progress. Emphasizing interconnectivity, Prof. Kraft explains how regional instability in Mindanao, a key food source, influences national economic conditions, advocating for the significance of peace in fostering development across the nation.

Discussion of Marawi exemplifies the complex interaction of military and peaceful responses to conflict. Despite military liberation, reconstruction efforts are delayed, causing civilian frustration and new recruits for armed groups. Issues such as land ownership and government promises contribute to ongoing tensions, demonstrating challenges in implementing effective post-conflict recovery.

The continuation of martial law in Mindanao raises questions about its effectiveness and the opinions of local communities. While some residents see martial law as a stabilizer, others feel oppressed, showing a divide in perceptions. The impact on local governance is tangible, altering traditional power dynamics and leading to discussions on long-term stability versus temporary measures.

Attention shifts to discussing the concentration of power in the Duterte administration, reflecting a populous dynamic prioritizing immediate crisis management. However, the implications for long-term political stability and the strengthening of democratic institutions are questioned. Short-term solutions are contrasted with the potential erosion of procedural governance, highlighting the populist shift.

Examining Duterte's authoritarian tendencies and the risks of centralizing power, the dialogue covers potential trade-offs, including weakened institutions and governance systems. It suggests that while such approaches might address immediate issues, they risk creating long-term political and institutional challenges. The key concern is balancing urgency with maintaining democratic processes.