The recently concluded International Research Forum on the Philippines (IRFP), organized by La Trobe University’s Philippine Australia Forum (PAF) and the Filipino-Australia Student Council (FASTCO) Victoria, was a remarkable event held at the university’s city campus in Melbourne.
As a panelist on the Care Economy panel, representing The Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network, I had the privilege of participating in a dynamic and insightful dialogue that underscored the forum’s significance.
This year’s IRFP served as a vibrant platform that convened researchers, industry practitioners, and the Filipino community in Australia and beyond, fostering an ever-growing conversation about sustainability. The forum gathered academics, scholars, and students to present and discuss their recent scholarly work on the Philippines, highlighting the importance of academic endeavors and exchanges in building a deeper understanding between the Philippines and Australia.
The IRFP’s emphasis on sustainability resonates deeply in the context of global challenges. It provided a space for critical discussions on how the Philippines and Australia can collaborate on sustainable practices, particularly in areas such as healthcare, the environment, and education. As a representative of The Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network, I witnessed firsthand the value of these discussions in promoting the care economy—a sector vital to both nations.
The event also highlighted the indispensable role of PAF as an institution. PAF is crucial for nurturing and sustaining academic and cultural exchanges between the Philippines and Australia. It serves as a bridge that not only connects the two nations but also enriches both by facilitating the flow of knowledge, cultural understanding, and collaborative opportunities. Support from both the Philippine and Australian governments is essential to harnessing the full potential of PAF. Such backing would ensure that initiatives like the IRFP continue to thrive, contributing to the academic and cultural landscapes of both countries.
The participation of diverse stakeholders in the IRFP underscores the multifaceted benefits of such forums. For researchers and scholars, it offers a platform to share their work and gain valuable insights from peers. For industry practitioners, it provides a space to explore the practical applications of academic research. For the Filipino community in Australia, it strengthens ties with their homeland and promotes cultural pride and identity.
