Danish Ambassador to the Philippines, Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin, delivered an in-depth lecture on Indo-Pacific geopolitics at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in Manila as part of the school’s Ambassador’s Lecture Series. The event connected diplomacy with the curriculum, giving students direct access to the perspectives of foreign envoys.
In his talk, Mellbin addressed the South China Sea disputes, China’s regional assertiveness, and the Philippines’ role in shaping the balance of power. He stressed that Manila’s alignment choices could have a decisive impact on regional stability, remarking that “Taiwan is not the tipping point in this region. The tipping point is the Philippines.”
The ambassador underscored the value of the Philippines’ alliance with the United States, while also pointing to the importance of strengthening partnerships with Japan and Australia. He added that Denmark supports cooperation with the Philippines in areas such as sustainable fishing in the West Philippine Sea.
During the open forum, students raised questions on international law, multilateral diplomacy, and the Philippines’ economic and security ties. Mellbin urged the country to develop a long-term strategic vision, stressing that political unity and resilience are key in responding to external pressures.
