New York PCG Filipinnovation Forum Showcases Filipino Leadership in Advancing Sustainable Development

Filipino professionals share their insights and efforts in attaining Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the panel discussion at forum on “Filipinnovation: Charting the Path to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)

NEW YORK, 30 September 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York hosted a forum on “Filipinnovation: Charting the Path to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” at the Philippine Center in New York, which featured the contributions and leadership by Filipino and Filipino-American professionals in driving solutions to meet the SDGs. The event brought together young leaders who are making strides in various fields to advance sustainability and inclusivity.

In his welcome remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile echoed the sentiments of UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Philippine Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo, underscoring the critical role of collaboration in tackling issues such as climate change, inequality, and economic growth. He remarked, “The effects of global inequality, economic uncertainty, and the far-reaching impacts of climate change stare at us directly and with an unwavering gaze. We hope that in our own small way, this forum, and the incredible Filipinnovators you will hear from today, will show us that innovation, creativity, and collaboration are key to overcoming these hurdles.”

The forum featured five young Filipino professionals who shared insights on how their work directly contributes to the SDGs. Mr. Harold Kent Heredia, Programme Management Officer at the United Nations Global Compact, highlighted the role of corporate responsibility and public-private partnerships in reducing inequality and promoting sustainable economic growth. Ms. Cecilia Pagkalinawan, Founder/CEO of Earthlings, focused on the intersection of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and climate action, emphasizing the balance between the environmental impacts of digital technologies and their benefits to sustainability. Ms. Criselda Sy, Associate at Silverpeak Renewables, discussed the significance of renewable energy investments and the challenges of scaling clean energy projects globally. Mr. Prio Opelanio, Director of WELL/BEINGS, spotlighted underrecognized environmental issues and the importance of community-based conservation efforts. Lastly, Ms. Rochelle Atizado, Senior Advisor at the United Nations Foundation, emphasized the power of global partnerships in advancing the SDGs, particularly in health and education.

Audience members ask critical questions to the panelists on how to tackle global challenges through the SDGs. (Photos by Sherlyn Roxas)

Following the individual remarks, a panel discussion was held, moderated by Mr. Robert Daniel Paredes-Barbero, an M.A. candidate in Political Science at Rutgers University. The panel delved deeper into the role of Filipinnovation in addressing global challenges, with a focus on how businesses and partnerships can contribute to the SDGs. The panelists emphasized the need for collaboration across sectors and disciplines to achieve a sustainable and inclusive future.

The program concluded with an Open Forum, where participants engaged the speakers in discussions about climate resilience, social entrepreneurship, and the future of sustainable development. The open dialogue allowed for a rich exchange of ideas on how Filipinnovation can address global challenges while driving progress toward the 2030 Agenda.

Consul General Senen T. Mangalile delivers his welcome remarks emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing pressing issues like climate change, inequality, and economic growth. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)

The forum marked the fourth installment of the Filipinnovation series organized by the Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in New York and Mr. Earl Valencia of the National Innovation Council of the Philippines. This series aims to showcase Filipino talent in global innovation and underscore the importance of technological advancements while celebrating Filipino leadership, talent, and creativity toward building a sustainable and inclusive future for all. END

(L-R) Vice Consul Cathe Aguilar, Mr. Harold Kent Heredia, Mr. Robert Daniel Paredes-Barbero, Ms. Cecilia Pagkalinawan, Consul General Senen Mangalile, Ms. Criselda Sy, Ms. Rochelle Atizado, Mr. Prio Opelanio, and Trade Commissioner Benedict Uy gather for a group photo after an insightful panel discussion on sustainability, innovation, and global partnerships. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)