UPCIDS, UP Vanguard, OSSSM host SRDP RTD

The UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UPCIDS) hosted a roundtable discussion on Republic Act No. 12024, also known as the “Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization (SRDP) Act” last June 30, 2025 at the University Hotel, UP Diliman. This event was made in collaboration with the UP Vanguard, Inc. and the Armed Forces of the Philippines – Office for Strategic Studies and Strategy Management (OSSSM).
This roundtable discussion aims to facilitate a comprehensive analysis of RA 12024, identify regulatory policy challenges and opportunities affecting the development of the defense industry, and generate actionable insights for effective SRDP implementation.
UP Vanguard inc. National Commander Luis Juan Oreta opened the event thanking everyone that made the collaboration and discussion possible. UPCIDS Executive Director Rosalie Arcala Hall also welcomed the participants and encouraged a meaningful exchange of ideas on SRDP.
Dr. Benjamin Vallejo Jr. of UPCIDS Conservation and Biodiversity Program and Vanguard Class 1988 introduced the keynote speaker. Lt. Col. Maria Theresa R. Escolano PAF (Res), MNSA delivered the speech on behalf of Department of National Defense Undersecretary for Defense Technology Research and Industry Development Rene S. Diaz. The speech focused on the current state of the country’s defense industry and the challenges it faces.
The keynote speech was followed by presentations of insights from various stakeholders.
Eleazer E. Ricote, Deputy Executive Director of Public-Private Partnership Center discussed options and considerations in building up an SRDP. He shared possible collaborations from the private sector, compared defense industries from other countries, and viable starting points for the country’s revitalization of defense industry.
UP Technology Transfer and Business Development Office Director Luis G. Sison shared insights on the current status of academe-industry projects currently found in UP. He shared how UP can harness its resources for great opportunities in the SRDP.
UPCIDS Program on Escaping the Middle-Income Trap: Chains for Change Convenor Annette Balaoing-Pelkmans shared her insights on SRDP in relation to the Tatak Pinoy Act.
The presentations were followed by a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Rodrigo Angelo C. Ong.
The program ended with a short message from BGen. Joel M. Paloma PA, OSSSM Chief encouraging future discussions on SRDP and hopeful for more similar collaborations between the academe, industry and government.
This activity was conducted in support of the University of the Philippines’ Flagship Program Number 5: Public Service for the Common Good, which calls for Active and Collaborative Partnerships with SUCs, NGAs, LGUs, Private Sector, and Civil Society.