Finland as new co-chair of the Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) says it will focus on women in journalism and media education.

At a dinner reception in Manila Wednesday, Finnish Ambassador Saija Nurminen said that Finland’s formally assumption of the MFC co-chairmanship alongside Germany reinforces its longstanding commitment to media freedom and human rights.

“It doesn’t come [as] a surprise to anyone who knows anything about Finland that we will focus particularly on women journalists,” Nurminen said.

“But also we would like to try to strengthen media literacy—that is another baby of ours—and we’ll try to do something with that as well,” she added.

The Media Freedom Coalition is a global alliance of 51 countries that supports journalists at risk, advocates for free and independent media, and works closely with legal experts and civil society groups to uphold press freedom around the world.

The event brought together diplomatic allies and media practitioners, including German Ambassador Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke, Canadian Ambassador David Hartman, and Ukrainian Ambassador Yuliia Fediv, as well as journalists from THEPHILBIZNEWS, Rappler, Inquirer.net, Philippine Star, and ABS-CBN News.

The intimate gathering also became a venue for dialogue on the Philippines’ current media environment, with participants exchanging ideas on how Finland can steer its MFC role effectively while upholding journalist safety and democratic values.

Ambassador Nurminen did not shy away from addressing the challenges journalists face in the Philippines, which continues to be considered one of the most dangerous places in the world for members of the press.

This assessment aligns with a recent statement from UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan, who described the Philippines as “one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists.” According to UNESCO, 117 journalists have been killed in the country over the past 30 years, with 81 of those cases remain unsolved.

Finland’s new role in the MFC also coincides with its 2025 Chairpersonship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), a role it intends to use to further human rights advocacy, particularly in support of Ukraine.

As part of its OSCE chairmanship, Finland hosted a commemorative conference on July 31 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act and reaffirm its relevance in today’s geopolitical and human rights challenges.

A milestone in this regard is the Helsinki Final Act, signed in 1975 by 35 countries, including the US, Canada, the Soviet Union, and all European states (except Albania). The agreement laid the foundation for post–Cold War diplomacy by committing signatories to respect human rights, sovereign borders, peaceful conflict resolution, and the right to self-determination. It remains a cornerstone of Finland’s foreign policy and multilateral engagement.

“And [it is important for] fundamental rights to have freedom of speech. For us, we also tie that to comprehensive security, [which is] a concept that is very dear to us in Finland,” Nurminen said.

In a podcast hosted by Iida Silvola, Finnish Ambassador to the Philippines Saija Nurminen shares in a recent episode of International Politics & Economics Association (IPEA) the role of diplomacy, Finland’s approach in international affairs, and what it truly means to be a woman leading in global affairs.

From podium to IPEA podcast, here’s how Her Excellency started her career and is now forging Finland’s unique presence across the globe.

“I knew early on that I wanted to become a lawyer, partly because in our family, there are a lot of lawyers. I was interested in social affairs, history, and topics like that… and in law school, I realized that I want to work in the public sector.”

“When I graduated, I didn’t think foreign relations as such something that I would do,” she says. She decided to have an exchange semester in Uppsala, Sweden, initially just thinking about improving her Swedish.

The ambassador recalls how most of the law students had their summer job when she came back to Helsinki; and she saw an opportunity posting for the Ministry for Foreign Affairs unit—an internship under the First Finnish EU Presidency. 

“I was the only applicant. The director asked me: Why are you the only one who’s here, applying for this position? I said: Everybody else [has] already their summer jobs. And then I got in. And the rest is history… and then I basically did my whole career being in the foreign service.”

The ambassador has served as a seasoned diplomat in foreign service postings from Washington to Manila.

“The privilege to change the theme and the topics in every 3-4 years is, of course, what sort of keeps this working life interesting.”

She has been to:

• Washington, DC, where she worked in trade & economic issues, climate change, energy, environment, and domestic politics
• Brussels, Belgium, where she joined EU working group in the Middle East and North Africa
• Berlin, Germany, where she was honed in Middle Eastern issues and migration, interior affairs
• Helsinki, Finland
  • International Criminal Court (ICC) | “I was in the legal department. And that was the first time in 15 years when I, as a lawyer, did any legal work in the MFA.”
  • Director for Human Resources Unit

Then she applied to Asia.

“I was thinking that this is the time to go to this side of the globe—and I was lucky to get a posting here in the Philippines. So I’ve almost gone through the globe and done almost different kinds of subjects when it comes to foreign policy.”

The envoy shares the main priorities of Finland in strengthening its ties with the Philippines:

• Investments – “deepening our bilateral trade relations”
• Labor mobility – Finland needs more skilled workers, from welders to green jobs
• Respect for the rule of international law

The ambassador believes that more women diplomats are emerging in the field. True to its core, Finland is committed to being at the forefront of an inclusive workplace.

“I usually chose male mentor, and only because I thought that it’s always good to have different point of views. Men and women think differently, or approach topics differently. I consciously navigated the system that way, even if I don’t think that’s a disadvantage—being a woman.” 

“It’s not about being a man or a woman, it’s about the whole society.”

The ambassador holds very definitive opinions:

On the right to vote and a universal school system, “We try to educate everyone because we have to have as many participants as possible. Now we are one of the wealthiest and safest countries in the world, and a stable democracy — I think that is quite [a] powerful narrative to say: ‘We did it.’”

“Where we are now is because of these policy directions that we made and had everyone involved. Every country’s foreign policy lies on its domestic policy.”

On Finnish diplomatic initiatives of and for women: Development cooperation & aid (girls’ education), finance organizations like UN Women, resolutions in the EU or UN, 40% of crisis management experts are women, and more!

BONUS: Book tip from Ambassador Saija Nurminen — Sleepwalkers: How Europe Went to War in 1914 by Christopher Clark.

From representation to an inclusive call to action, Finland offers much more than being known as the happiest country. And perhaps driven by the same values and proactive engagements in the system, Finnish diplomacy continues to thrive… making its own legacy, one policy at a time.

Editor’s note: Listen to the full interview at A Foreign Conversation | IPEA ESADE via Spotify link here.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

For those who know Cusi, this moment was a departure from his usual preference for privacy. “Popoy is a low-key artist, revered internationally but happy to remain in his studio,” says Monsi Serrano, founder of THEPHILBIZNEWS. “He’s not the type to seek the spotlight. For him, it’s always about the art, not the attention.”

Convincing Cusi to attend the event required some persuasion. “I had to wake up early on April 3 and ask him to meet for coffee,” Serrano recalls. “He was reluctant, but I told him it would be the perfect birthday gift for me. And so, he agreed.” It was a special request, indeed, as the event not only celebrated art but also bridged cultural connections, offering attendees the chance to meet the artist behind the masterpiece.

Cusi’s Labuyo, a watercolor painting measuring 22 by 30 inches, was no ordinary piece. For Cusi, this creation had been more than two decades in the making. “I’ve always dreamed of painting the labuyo,” he shares. “But everything happens in God’s time. It was only at this moment, with the prestigious gathering of ambassadors and business leaders, that I felt it was the right time to bring this vision to life.”

The labuyo, or red junglefowl, is not just any bird. It is a symbol of the Philippines’ rich natural heritage and a call for conservation. “The labuyo is in danger of extinction,” Cusi explains. “I wanted to raise awareness, especially among the younger generation, about this beautiful creature. It’s small, almost like a chicken, but it thrives in the dense forests and hides in the trees to avoid hunters.”

Creating the painting was a labor of love. “It took me over a month,” Cusi says. “There are several layers of detail that need to be built up. It couldn’t be rushed; otherwise, it wouldn’t have captured the vibrancy and detail you see now.” The artist, working from his home studio, describes the process as nostalgic. “Every morning, I’d wake up and stare at the painting, adding little touches until it felt complete. It took me back to my childhood, chasing these birds from tree to tree, appreciating their agility.”

Interestingly, Cusi revealed that the Labuyo painting at Embassy Night is part of a series. “I’ve done two other Labuyo pieces,” he says. “But this one is different. I signed it with the full title to make it even more special. The occasion called for it.”

The painting not only drew admiration from the crowd but also sparked deep reflections. British Ambassador to the Philippines, Laure Beaufils, was fascinated by the bird. “I didn’t even know the Philippines had a bird like this,” she marveled. Meanwhile, Archbishop Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, asked Cusi why he chose the labuyo over more traditional subjects like mountains or flowers. Cusi’s answer reflected the symbolism behind his choice: “The labuyo represents freedom. It moves freely in the jungle, unburdened and strong. I wanted to capture that spirit of liberation.”

Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo, also struck by the painting, inquired about the preservation of the labuyo. Cusi was hopeful, “With community awareness, government action, and support from lawmakers, we can save it. The extinction threat can be mitigated if we protect the environment and biodiversity.”

For Cusi, this Labuyo painting holds more than just artistic value. It is a powerful statement about nature’s fragility and the need to protect it. The labuyo, revered by the Mangyan tribes of Mindoro as sacred, symbolizes power, agility, and the spirit of freedom. Through his art, Cusi calls for both appreciation and preservation of the beauty that lies within the heart of the Philippines’ tropical forests.

“I felt so proud of how the ambassadors and other distinguished guests appreciated the Labuyo. In a way, I expected them to have many questions on their minds. At one point, one of the guests even approached me and offered to buy the painting for ₱2 million, but I politely refused and explained that I am not selling it. It’s a special gift to my dear friend that I promised to paint eight years ago,” Cusi said. Then there was another guest who expressed interest in buying the Labuyo to give to his father, a cockfighting aficionado. But I smiled and told him that the Labuyo is not for sale.

This rare glimpse into Popoy Cusi’s world reminds us that art, much like nature itself, is a precious thing and priceless one at that — meant to be admired, protected, and cherished for generations to come.

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.

Monsi Serrano, founder and publisher of The Philippine Business and News (THEPHILBIZNEWS), delivered a heartfelt speech expressing gratitude to the distinguished guests and emphasizing the importance of fostering relationships between the Philippines and the global community.

“It is truly an honor to welcome you all to this year’s Embassy Night. Since its inception, this event has served as a bridge, connecting diplomats and industry leaders to collaborate and cultivate meaningful partnerships. Tonight, we celebrate the friendships and partnerships that continue to drive progress and cooperation between our nations,” he said.

Serrano also recognized the invaluable support of Hotel Okura Manila, whose hospitality has made Embassy Night an unforgettable experience for attendees over the past three years. He went on to highlight THEPHILBIZNEWS’ major projects for 2025, including the launch of its book The Philippine Business and News: Lessons from the Pandemic, a documentary on Ukrainian schoolchildren affected by war, and the debut of its Entrepreneurs’ Night.

This year’s limited-edition mug, a treasured gift for all attendees, was designed by Master Watercolor Artist Rafael “Popoy” Cusi. The artwork, Labuyo, depicts the rare and intricate red junglefowl, symbolizing agility, power, and freedom, while advocating for wildlife conservation. Cusi’s work celebrates the beauty of Filipino life and the importance of preserving the nation’s natural heritage.

His Excellency Charles Brown, Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, gave the invocation.

Ambassadors who spoke at the event included:

• H.E. Răduţa Dana Matache (Romania)
• H.E. Marielle Geraedts (The Netherlands)
• H.E. Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin (Denmark)
• H.E. Dr. Nicolas Brühl (Switzerland)
• H.E. Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura (Brazil)
• H.E. Kazuya Endo (Japan)
• H.E. Saija Nurminen (Finland)
• H.E. Anna Ferry (Sweden)
• Ambassador Wallace Chow (Taiwan)

Also in attendance were:

• H.E. Emma Hickey (Ireland)
• H.E. Karel Hejč (Czech Republic)
• H.E. Massimo Santoro (European Union)
• H.E. Ilan Fluss (Israel)
• H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino (Malaysia)
• H.E. Mohammed Rida El Fassi (Morocco)
• H.E. Dr. Catherine McIntosh (New Zealand)
• H.E. Niyazi Akyol (Turkey)
• H.E. Yuliia Fediv (Ukraine)
• HMA Laure Beaufils (United Kingdom)

Other embassies were represented by officials from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Germany, Hungary, Mexico, Poland, Singapore, Spain, and Austria.

Embassy Night has proven to be an essential platform for diplomatic discourse, celebrating international unity and further solidifying the Philippines’ role as a vital partner in the global arena.

Serrano expressed his excitement about continuing THEPHILBIZNEWS’s role in fostering strong diplomatic and economic ties, contributing to a more connected and collaborative world.