Poland Archives - THEPHILBIZNEWS

CONTINENTAL DRIFT: The case for cooperation

Dr. BJ Enverga — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 21:20:00 +0000

By Dr. BJ Enverga

In June 1859, thousands of wounded soldiers lay abandoned on a battlefield in northern Italy. There were not enough doctors, not enough supplies, and no organized system to care for them. When a Swiss businessman named Henry Dunant arrived, the fighting was already over. But its aftermath remained.

Dunant described it as one of “the most dreadful sights imaginable”, filled with “agony” and “suffering”. Some of the wounded cried out, “They desert us, leave us to die miserably,” as they waited for aid that never came. He began helping where he could, organizing local villagers to tend to the wounded, regardless of which side they had fought for.

In the days that followed, he was struck by a troubling realization. There were no agreed rules, no shared system, and no international effort to care for victims of war.

Dunant returned to Switzerland and wrote a short book, A Memory of Solferino, describing what he had seen. He ended it with a simple proposal. What if countries agreed to create neutral organizations to care for the wounded in times of war? What if they established rules that all sides would follow?

The idea was radical. It required countries to cooperate even in the midst of conflict. And it caught on.

In 1863, Dunant’s proposal led to the creation of the International Committee of the Red Cross. A year later, his work also contributed to the first Geneva Convention, an international agreement establishing rules for the humane treatment of wounded soldiers.

War did not disappear. Atrocities did not end. However, the agreement defined what should and should not be done, even on the battlefield. It showed that even in conflict, cooperation was possible.

Over time, similar efforts would emerge in other areas. A Polish-Jewish lawyer named Rafael Lemkin would later campaign for international recognition of genocide as a crime, helping to establish legal norms against it. After the sinking of the Titanic, the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea introduced new standards for maritime safety, including continuous radio monitoring and ships having adequate numbers of lifeboats. In the early 2000s, the rapid spread of SARS was contained in part through unprecedented cooperation coordinated by the World Health Organization, as countries shared data, expertise, and resources in real time.

These efforts did not eliminate risk, tragedy, or conflict. But they reduced harm. They created systems that made the world more predictable, more stable, and, in many cases, more humane.

They remind us that the world does not function by chance alone. It is held together by agreements, both formal and informal, that allow countries to coordinate their actions and manage shared problems.

At a time when many societies seem to be turning inward and global cooperation appears fragile, it is worth remembering how much of our daily lives depends on these systems. The price of fuel, for instance, is not determined solely by local supply and demand. It is shaped by international agreements, trade routes, and the stability of key waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz. When cooperation breaks down, the effects are felt far beyond the sites of conflict, reaching into everyday life.

These systems exist because countries have learned to work together, even when doing so is difficult.

One lesson we can take from Henry Dunant is not only that suffering could be alleviated, but it requires cooperation across borders. His idea was simple. Even in a divided world, there could be shared rules and shared responsibilities.

That is what made his vision so powerful, and it remains just as relevant today.

The systems we rely on, whether in times of war, disaster, or disease, did not emerge naturally. They were built, often in response to moments of crisis, by people who believed that cooperation was possible. They endure only so long as that belief is sustained.

In a world that is becoming more fragmented, those systems cannot be taken for granted. They must be sustained, strengthened, and, when necessary, defended.

Because even in moments of division, it is cooperation that allows us to respond to global pandemics, keep vital trade routes open, and make the world more humane in times of crisis.

PH envoy meets Zelenskyy, holds Poland labor talks

The Philippine Business and News — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 13:54:01 +0000

Ambassador to Ukraine Alan L. Deniega formally presented his Letters of Credence to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on April 7, marking a key step in strengthening bilateral relations as Manila expands its diplomatic and labor engagements in Europe.

The ceremony was held at the historic Saint Sophia Cathedral, coinciding with the 34th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Ukraine. The venue underscored Ukraine’s centuries-old diplomatic tradition, tracing its roots to Kyivan Rus.

PHOTO FROM THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT, UKRAINE

Following the presentation, Ambassador Deniega held a tête-à-tête with President Zelenskyy, where both sides discussed current Philippines-Ukraine relations and explored areas of mutual interest.

Days later, on April 10, Deniega continued his diplomatic engagements in Poland, meeting officials from the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Policy to advance the welfare of Filipino workers.

The Polish side, represented by Deputy State Minister Sebastian Gajewski, acknowledged the significant contributions of Filipinos to Poland’s labor market and economy.

PHOTO FROM THE PH EMBASSY IN POLAND

Discussions covered migration policy, labor market dynamics, and key concerns affecting foreign workers, alongside measures being implemented by the Polish government to address these issues. Gajewski expressed openness to further cooperation with the Philippines.

As part of its integration efforts, Poland is also developing an interactive digital portal to help foreign workers navigate legal and administrative systems while adapting to local culture.

The engagements reflect Manila’s continued push to deepen diplomatic ties while strengthening protections for overseas Filipino workers across Europe.

MTRCB greenlights PH-produced Ukraine documentary

THEPHILBIZNEWS STAFF — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 07:23:00 +0000

By THEPHILBIZNEWS STAFF

A Philippine-produced documentary highlighting the resilience of Ukrainian schoolchildren amid war has been approved for public exhibition by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), earning a PG-13 rating for its inspirational and educational value.

Titled Hope for the Dawn to Come, the non-commercial documentary was funded and produced by The Philippine Business and News (THEPHILBIZNEWS) and filmed over three and a half years, underscoring the sustained commitment of a Philippine media organization to responsible and impactful storytelling.

Filming took place across three countries—the Czech Republic (Prague), Poland (Warsaw and Krakow), and Ukraine, including Donbas, Kharkiv, Poltava, Kyiv, Lviv, Bucha, and Chernihiv—capturing both international perspectives and on-the-ground realities of life in a war zone.

The documentary unfolds against the backdrop of Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022. As the war approaches its fourth year on February 24, 2026, the film underscores the prolonged and devastating impact of the conflict on children, families, and the education sector.

Despite relentless missile and drone attacks, air raid sirens, and constant security threats, Ukrainian schoolchildren continue to pursue their education with extraordinary courage and determination. Their stories—told through candid interviews and on-site recordings conducted with full consent—show how learning persists even under the most dangerous conditions.

The film also documents the fate of Honey Academy in Kharkiv, where many of the interviewed students once studied. The school was later destroyed by repeated Russian missile and drone strikes, serving as a stark reminder of the war’s toll on civilians and educational institutions.

In its official assessment, the MTRCB review committee—composed of Ricardo M. Salomon Jr., Jose E. Romero IV, and Evylene V. Advincula—approved the documentary for public exhibition, recognizing it as an inspirational real-life film produced by a Philippine media company. While noting its hopeful and educational message, the Board recommended parental guidance due to the realities of war depicted on screen.

“Hope for the Dawn to Come is an inspiring documentary highlighting children’s resilience amid war. While its message is hopeful and educational, the real-life conflict context and potentially distressing visuals warrant a PG classification, with parental guidance recommended for younger audiences,” the reviewers stated.

For his part, Monsi Alfonso Serrano, founder of THEPHILBIZNEWS, who went to Ukraine several times to painstakingly complete the documentary said, “This film was made not for profit, not for ratings, but out of a shared responsibility to bear witness—and to tell the truth with humanity. In a world shaped by conflict and disinformation, independent storytelling remains one of the most powerful bridges between nations and people. THEPHILBIZNEWS may be far from the country’s largest media organizations, but despite limited resources, this non-commercial documentary proves that even micro media can illuminate stories the world ought to see. This is a story that does not ask for our attention—it asks for our conscience.”

The documentary will be showcased through a private screening in the Philippines, made possible through the presentation of the Araneta Group of Companies, Araneta City, Gateway Cineplex, and UniProm Inc.

GCash, RCBC, FintechAlliance.Ph, ES Print Media Inc., Asia Manila Prime Properties, Hotel Okura Manila, and Discovery Suites Manila, Philippines further support the non-commercial production.

With MTRCB approval secured, Hope for the Dawn to Come stands as a testament to responsible Philippine documentary filmmaking and the enduring power of storytelling to foster empathy, awareness, and solidarity across borders.

BEYOND SIGHT: Choosing Europe and Canada Over America

Monsi A. Serrano — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 16:09:00 +0000

By Monsi A. Serrano

The United States was once the undisputed dream destination for global travelers. Today, it is losing tourists for a simple reason: it has lost its welcome.

Much of this shift traces back to President Donald J. Trump, whose leadership style — marked by hostility, paranoia, and strongman theatrics — has steadily alienated the very world America once attracted. Under his watch, travelers are no longer courted; they are scrutinized, discouraged, and often humiliated.

In 2025, foreign arrivals to the U.S. dropped sharply. Land travel from Canada fell by more than 30 percent, while air arrivals continued to slide. This is not a seasonal lull or a post-pandemic correction. It is reputation risk in real time — self-inflicted and politically driven.

Tourism is not a vanity industry. It is a serious economic pillar, contributing billions to GDP, sustaining jobs, and projecting soft power. You do not need to be an economist to understand what happens when a country signals suspicion instead of hospitality.

By contrast, nations that treat visitors as guests rather than walking ATM machines benefit from something no ad campaign can buy: word of mouth. Social media fills with images, stories, and recommendations. Trust travels faster than policy memos.

Trump, however, appears indifferent to tourism’s value. His rhetoric consistently frames foreigners as threats rather than contributors. The result: tighter border scrutiny, punitive visa fees, and widely publicized cases of travelers being delayed, interrogated, or denied entry. Even legitimate visitors now approach U.S. borders with anxiety.

His combative posture toward allies, trade wars disguised as patriotism, and public belittling of partner nations send a clear message: Visitors are no longer welcome; they are liabilities.

The fallout does not stop with foreign tourists. Ordinary Americans increasingly absorb the backlash of Trump’s foreign policy choices. Abroad, U.S. citizens report subtle — and sometimes open — resentment, blamed not for who they are, but for what their government represents.

Immigration crackdowns, diplomatic bullying, and institutional contempt have reshaped the American passport’s meaning. Once a symbol of openness and curiosity, it now comes with caveats. Tourism and security analysts note that this erosion of goodwill feeds directly into travel decisions: If Americans themselves face discomfort abroad, why would foreigners feel welcome in the U.S.?

Greenland, Denmark, and the cost of diplomatic absurdity

Few episodes captured this decline more vividly than Trump’s fixation on acquiring Greenland, an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark. By publicly floating the idea as if it were a real-estate deal, Trump drew swift rebukes from Danish and Greenlandic leaders, who reminded the world that sovereign territories are not commodities.

What sounded like spectacle carried real consequences. Diplomatic assessments show the episode strained relations with Denmark and unsettled Nordic partners, reinforcing perceptions of an America willing to antagonize allies for ego and headlines. Tourists, like investors, pay attention when leadership turns erratic.

Europe: What the U.S. can’t replicate

Against this backdrop, Europe’s appeal becomes inevitable. Beyond friendliness and scenery, Europe offers something the U.S. cannot replicate: layered diversity.

In one journey, travelers can explore Poland’s restored old towns, absorb the quiet elegance of Prague and Vienna, marvel at Switzerland’s alpine majesty, experience Germany’s blend of history and efficiency, or savor Belgium’s medieval squares and world-class cuisine. A short train ride later, they are cycling Dutch canals, immersed in French art and gastronomy, or standing inside Italy’s living museums, where history, fashion, food, and daily life coexist effortlessly.

Borders dissolve in hours, yet languages, traditions, architecture, and flavors change dramatically. Europe does not sell a single narrative. It offers many, each grounded in centuries of culture and proudly preserved identity.

Canada’s quiet windfall

As U.S. tourism campaigns stumble, Canada continues to offer what money can’t manufacture: authentic places, living culture, and seasons genuinely worth traveling for.

Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site (PHOTO BY MONSI A. SERRANO)

As inevitable, America’s self-inflicted tourism wounds benefit Canada. Beyond Niagara Falls, it offers Quebec’s old-world charm, Nova Scotia’s coastal calm, Prince Edward Island’s pastoral beauty, Whistler’s alpine adventures, and Banff’s breathtaking wilderness.

As U.S. tourism campaigns falter, autumn in Quebec thrives effortlessly—where history and nature meet in quiet harmony. (PHOTO BY MONSI A. SERRANO)

More importantly, Canada now delivers much of what the U.S. once promised, and without the hostility, suspicion, or political chaos.

The Mi’kmaq wigwam at Annapolis, Nova Scotia, reflects enduring Indigenous culture in Atlantic Canada. PHOTO BY MONSI A. SERRANO)

The historic port town of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia’s South Shore ang famous as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its remarkably preserved British colonial settlement. (PHOTO BY MONSI A. SERRANO)

Soft power on life support

For decades, America’s greatest export was goodwill. Under Trump, that soft power has withered. Tourism, where diplomacy, culture, and economics intersect, is among the first casualties.

This decline is not accidental. It is the direct result of leadership that mistakes intimidation for strength and isolation for sovereignty.

Trump as Duterte 2.0 and Venezuela as the warning label

Trump increasingly resembles a Duterte-style strongman: impulsive, institutionally dismissive, and driven more by ego than statesmanship. History shows where this path leads.

Venezuela is the clearest cautionary tale. Once among Latin America’s wealthiest nations, it slid into isolation, economic collapse, and mass emigration after strongman rule hollowed out institutions and alienated global partners. Tourism vanished. Investors fled. The country became a warning rather than a destination.

The United States is not Venezuela — yet. But the pattern is familiar: Attack institutions, antagonize allies, personalize power, and dismiss accountability. Tourism, being sentiment-driven, is always among the first industries to flee when a country’s moral compass spins out of control.

Why I’m done with the U.S. and why many others are too

After watching Trump turn the United States into a visa obstacle course, antagonize allies, and govern like a strongman rather than a statesman, I chose not to renew my U.S. visa. No plans. No regrets.

If a country treats visitors like suspects and allies like enemies, why spend hard-earned money there?

The world offers better options. Canada welcomes with warmth and ease. Europe opens its arms with depth, diversity, and genuine hospitality.

Trump’s undoing of America’s goodwill has given travelers clarity: endure bureaucracy, suspicion, and bad headlines—or choose destinations that still value you as a guest.

I know which stamp I’m putting in my passport. How about you?

Rising hybrid threats seen in Europe and Indo-Pacific

The Philippine Business and News — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 03:59:43 +0000

Security experts are sounding the alarm on the growing risks posed by gray zone tactics, lawfare, cyberattacks, and the disruptive use of emerging technologies—challenges that are increasingly destabilizing both Europe and the Indo-Pacific.

These warnings came during the high-level forum “Navigating Asymmetric Threats: Cross-Regional Strategies for Europe and the Indo-Pacific”, organized by the Stratbase Institute in partnership with the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), held at The Conservatory, The Peninsula Manila on September 18, 2025. The full-day dialogue underscored how the two regions, though geographically distant, have become strategic flashpoints in the evolving landscape of asymmetric threats.

Rear Admiral Guillaume Pinget, Commander of the French Armed Forces in the Pacific, described these challenges as “a strategic tool,” warning that the use of force in state disputes is now “uninhibited.” He pointed to the parallel technological race unfolding in areas such as AI, drones, space, cyber, and electronic spectrum, stressing that these developments threaten not just economic and political systems but also democratic freedoms and national sovereignty.

Stratbase Institute President Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit emphasized the urgency of cross-regional collaboration, noting how Europe and the Indo-Pacific are now “intertwined” by shared security and prosperity goals. “We may be halfway across the world from each other, but changing times have narrowed the gaps. Security and prosperity are our common goals,” he said, affirming the Institute’s commitment to deepen cooperation with governments, the private sector, and the diplomatic community.

Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Año echoed these calls, identifying energy, critical infrastructure, and advanced technologies as priority areas for stronger cooperation. He underscored the need for freedom of navigation and regional stability in contested waters, stressing that while ASEAN states do not seek conflict, all must prepare for the risks of escalation. Año also urged exploring alternatives to reduce dependence on a single power, citing education, health, and infrastructure as avenues for collective resilience.
Looking forward, Año highlighted the role of innovation in shaping future defense strategies: “The way ahead for us should be about innovation strategy and harnessing new technologies as tools for collective security. Despite unprecedented risks, I am optimistic that our regions have the resources, capacities, and willpower to shape the future.”

ECFR Distinguished Visiting Fellow James Crabtree added that shared experiences among like-minded states are critical. He cited Russia’s gray zone activities in Europe—from drones in Poland to helicopters in Estonia—and drew parallels to rising challenges in the Indo-Pacific, including recent threats to cable infrastructure and persistent pressure in the Taiwan Strait and the West Philippine Sea.

Across four in-depth panels, experts explored the ripple effects of shifting U.S. security policy, the weaponization of lawfare, the vulnerability of undersea cables as global lifelines, and the destabilizing impact of emerging technologies. The forum closed with a resounding call for sustained cross-regional cooperation, innovation-driven security, and ASEAN-centric mechanisms for dialogue, affirming that Europe and the Indo-Pacific must act together to safeguard stability in an increasingly turbulent global order.

Cine Europa 28 highlights diversity, hope, and resilience

The Philippine Business and News — Sat, 06 Sep 2025 08:27:04 +0000

The European Union Delegation to the Philippines proudly presents the 28th edition of Cine Europa, the country’s longest-running European film festival, continuing its tradition of bringing world-class cinema to Filipino audiences.

Organized by the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines, in partnership with the Embassies of EU Member States in Manila and guest participant, the Embassy of Ukraine, this year’s festival highlights the breadth of European creativity and storytelling.

Cine Europa 28 offers a compelling line-up of award-winning dramas, comedies, animations, and literary adaptations, tackling universal themes of resilience, identity, family, freedom, and hope.

Among the featured films are:

The Peasants (Poland) – An animated oil-painting masterpiece about a woman’s fight for independence in a 19th-century village.

Beyond the Blue Border (Germany) – A gripping story of two teenagers risking everything to cross the Baltic Sea.

Three Kilometres to the End of the World (Romania) – A raw drama about a young man facing the aftermath of a homophobic attack.

Dragonkeeper: Guardiana de dragones (Spain) – A magical family adventure about saving the last dragon egg.

Je’vida (Finland) – The first film in the Skolt Sámi language, exploring indigenous identity and healing.

Curated Theft (Ukraine) – A timely account of the looting of Kherson’s museums during Russia’s invasion — the largest art theft in Europe since World War II.

Other highlights include heartfelt family stories (Jippie No More, Netherlands), sharp comedies (Fathers & Mothers, Denmark), inspiring tales of resilience (Tarrac, Ireland), and literary adaptations that probe love and freedom (L’Amour et les forêts, France).

Screenings will run in Manila at Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City from September 8 to 17, 2025, followed by special screenings in Cebu, Tacloban, and Bacolod, ensuring more Filipinos across the country can enjoy the festival.

Cine Europa 28 continues with the support of its loyal partners: the Film Development Council of the Philippines, Shangri-La Plaza Corporation, University of the Philippines-Cebu, Provincial Government of Bacolod, University of St. La Salle – Bacolod, and Eastern Visayas State University in Tacloban.

With its rich and diverse program, Cine Europa 28 reaffirms the power of cinema to inspire, challenge, and connect audiences — making it a much-anticipated cultural event in the Philippines.

‘Memento’ celebrates Europe’s heritage in photos at Alliance Française

Marinel E. Peroy — Wed, 21 May 2025 03:33:00 +0000

By Marinel E. Peroy

In a dazzling celebration of Europe Day, Alliance Française de Manille opened its doors to art enthusiasts and Europhiles alike with a captivating photo exhibition titled “Memento: A Journey Through Europe.”

On May 9, the venue was transformed into an immersive visual experience, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestries and diverse histories of seven European countries: Austria, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Poland, Romania, and Sweden.

As guests arrived for the vernissage, they were greeted by a collection of stunning photographs curated to highlight each country’s distinctive beauty—from breathtaking landscapes and architectural marvels to the people and traditions that define them. The event brought together a vibrant crowd of diplomats, art lovers, and curious minds eager to connect with Europe in all its multifaceted glory.

PHOTOS FROM ALLIANCE FRANCAISE DE MANILLE

The photo exhibitions were a collaboration between the embassies of these European nations, each bringing a unique perspective on their culture, heritage, and values.

Romania’s contribution was a visual love letter to its identity, as Ambassador Răduţa Dana Matache eloquently explained. The exhibition spans five key elements of Romania’s essence: spirituality, nature, highways, arts, and culture. Visitors were transported to Romania’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, like the painted churches, while the iconic Transfăgărășan highway—dubbed one of the most spectacular in the world—took center stage.

Ambassador Saija Nurminen of Finland shared how three carefully selected images showcased Finland’s unique influence in the Philippines, including the enduring legacy of Nokia phones and Armi Kuusela, the first-ever Miss Universe, who married a Filipino. Finland’s connection with the Philippines was depicted through vibrant cultural milestones, underscoring the 70-year diplomatic bond between the two nations.

PHOTOS FROM ALLIANCE FRANCAISE DE MANILLE

Ambassador Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin of Denmark presented images that reflected Denmark’s commitment to sustainability, well-being, and the art of “slow living.” Visitors could appreciate Denmark’s emphasis on biking as a sustainable and joyful mode of transport, while rural landscapes stood in stark contrast to the bustling urban life of Copenhagen.

The Austrian Embassy’s display was a harmonious blend of art and tradition, featuring images of the legendary Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss and vibrant theatrical performances that celebrate Austria’s rich artistic heritage. The collection offered a window into both the country’s past and its modern creative spirit.

Poland’s contribution invited viewers to explore the majestic natural beauty of the country, from the golden glow of the Golden Cave to the tranquil Kamieńczyk Waterfall—testaments to Poland’s breathtaking geology and lush landscapes.

PHOTOS FROM ALLIANCE FRANCAISE DE MANILLE

Swedish Ambassador Anna Pernilla Ferry brought Sweden’s captivating traditions to life, with one of the highlights being the story of the Sami people. With only about 20,000 Sami residing in Sweden, their rich cultural heritage—complete with their own language, flag, and parliament—was beautifully captured in the exhibition. Eco-tourism, folk costumes, and Midsummer traditions were among the key images that showcased Sweden’s commitment to sustainability and heritage preservation.

The Italian Embassy’s photographs served as a reminder to savor the moment, as Ambassador Davide Giglio aptly noted. Italy’s exhibition celebrated its timeless art, food, and culture, urging everyone to experience life as it happens rather than through the lens of a camera.

Open to the public from May 1 to 31, “Memento: A Journey Through Europe” offers a rare opportunity to explore the many facets of European life in one place. Don’t miss out on this breathtaking visual journey at Alliance Française de Manille, located at 209 Nicanor Garcia II, Makati City. It’s not just a photo exhibition—it’s an invitation to experience Europe through the eyes of its people, its artists, and its unique cultural heritage.

PHOTOS FROM ALLIANCE FRANCAISE DE MANILLE

For those who cherish art, culture, and the stories told through images, this exhibition is an unmissable opportunity to connect with Europe in all its splendor.

33 foreign ambassadors & diplomats join 4th Embassy Night at Hotel Okura Manila

The Philippine Business and News — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 08:29:10 +0000

Over 33 foreign ambassadors and diplomats, along with business leaders, representatives from foreign chambers, and media practitioners, gathered on Thursday at Hotel Okura Manila for THEPHILBIZNEWS’s exclusive Embassy Night – Year 4.

The event was a vibrant celebration of international partnerships, collaboration, and cross-cultural understanding, with diplomats from a diverse range of countries in attendance. The evening fostered meaningful exchanges and discussions aimed at strengthening the Philippines’ diplomatic and economic relations globally.