What PACLAS Is All About

        The Philippine Academic Consortium for Latin American Studies, or PACLAS, was founded in 2002 as a flagship project of the Department of Foreign Affairs (Republic of the Philippines) for FEALAC (Forum for East Asia- Latin America Cooperation). This consortium of Philippine universities and research agencies has the primary objective to expand Philippine-Latin American studies in collaboration with academic institutions in Latin America, and to promote academic and cultural exchange between the Philippines and Latin American countries. Thus PACLAS likewise seeks to promote Philippine studies in Latin America. It has been working to create an academic and research-centered network intended to foster mutual confidence and cooperation and to enhance exchange in multilateral fora (i.e., FEALAC as well as in academic networks in Latin America, Asia, and other regions).

        The consortium is cognizant of the importance of the centuries-old relations between the Philippines and the Latin American region. Ultimately, it seeks to contribute to the revitalization of Philippine relations with Latin America in the political, economic and cultural fields. From its inception, its initiatives have been founded on the conviction that a broader and deeper understanding of intersecting histories and cultural heritage is critical in the efforts to further enhance friendly relations and cooperation for mutual benefit between the Philippines and Latin American countries.

           At present, the members of PACLAS are Ateneo de Manila University (vice-chair), De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, Foreign Service Institute, University of Asia and the Pacific, University of the East, and the University of Santo Tomas (current chair). Each institution has a representative on the Executive Board.