Economic exchanges are made more dynamic when intertwined with cultural capital. This is an asset that benefits both parties involved in the exchange.  Cultural capital may be acquired in different forms such as specialized knowledge, which is attained in school or in the practice of a profession, or a particular behavior that may be looked upon with high regard. This is the kind of gain that the exchange yields—that each party broadens its circle of familiars. In the case of the Philippines and Latin America, there is much room to further develop the existing connections, economic and cultural.

       Albeit the Philippines has been more engrossed with its relations with China, Japan and the US, there is a need for Filipinos to understand their deep shared connections with Latin America. Neighboring countries in East Asia as well as Southeast Asia have made rigorous efforts to promote intensive trade with Latin America, by engaging in diplomatic relations, by encouraging in-depth studies of Latin America by its nationals, and by promoting exchanges and study groups in academe and trade. What the Philippines can gain with these efforts of restoring and developing economic and cultural exchanges is the opportunity to participate in major dynamic and emerging economies within Latin America; as well as the much needed dialogue between the two cultures to deepen understanding and appreciation. There is need for Filipinos to understand their deep connections with Latin America and to utilize these in planning their own future projects.

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The Conference Objectives

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• To explore dimensions of Philippine-Latin American relations within the larger context of Asia, identifying factors that make Latin America America highly significant to some Asian countries, with a view to strengthening economic exchange between the Philippines and Latin America;

 

• To underline the importance of mutual understanding as a basis of strong trade relations, which includes the socio-historical dimension, and the experiences of select Latin American investors in the Philippines and of Filipino investors in Latin America;

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• To identify areas of potentially vibrant cultural and economic exchanges; and

 

• To formulate proposals that will promote closer economic and investment ties with and better understanding of Latin America.

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