Manila Bolsters Regional Cooperation Against Biological Weapons and Disinformation
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines has taken center stage in the global fight against biological weapons and the spread of disinformation surrounding weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). In collaboration with the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP) and King’s College London (KCL), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) hosted two crucial regional workshops on February 18th and 19th, 2025. These workshops, focused on "Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) Compliance and Verification" and "Countering WMD Disinformation," brought together officials and experts from ASEAN member states to address the growing challenges in these critical security domains.
The first workshop, dedicated to BWC compliance and verification, delved into the ongoing discussions surrounding the establishment of robust mechanisms to ensure adherence to the convention. Participants examined lessons learned from other WMD treaties and verification regimes, seeking to identify best practices and innovative approaches. This focus on verification underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in preventing the development and use of biological weapons. The discussions aimed to strengthen the BWC’s effectiveness and bolster global security against biological threats.
The second workshop tackled the pervasive issue of WMD disinformation. This growing threat, fueled by the rapid spread of false narratives and misinformation, poses a significant challenge to global non-proliferation efforts. The workshop provided a platform for experts and officials to analyze the nature and impact of WMD disinformation, explore strategies to counter its spread, and enhance public understanding of the dangers posed by such misinformation. The collaborative approach sought to build resilience against disinformation campaigns and safeguard the integrity of international non-proliferation efforts.
Undersecretary Charles C. Jose of the DFA, in his welcoming remarks, emphasized the importance of these workshops in providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of BWC verification and the challenges posed by disinformation. He highlighted the need to learn from past verification models and explore innovative solutions, particularly those leveraging new technologies, to enhance the effectiveness of the BWC. Undersecretary Jose also stressed the Philippines’ commitment to fostering international peace and security through a rules-based international order, emphasizing the crucial role of regional cooperation, particularly within ASEAN, in addressing these critical security challenges.
These back-to-back workshops represent the second installment in a series of disarmament and non-proliferation events hosted by the DFA in 2025. This demonstrates the Philippines’ steadfast dedication to promoting international peace, security, and cooperation. By taking a proactive role in addressing the complex issues of biological weapons and WMD disinformation, the Philippines reaffirms its commitment to a rules-based international order and strengthens regional collaboration in the Asia-Pacific. The workshops serve as a testament to the country’s leadership in fostering dialogue and cooperation on critical security issues.
The Philippines has consistently championed disarmament and non-proliferation efforts, having ratified nearly all major humanitarian disarmament treaties and endorsed key initiatives such as the Political Declaration on Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas. The country’s active engagement in these workshops reflects its commitment to strengthening international norms against biological weapons and combating the spread of harmful disinformation. By hosting these important regional gatherings, the Philippines contributes significantly to the global effort to build a more secure and peaceful world, free from the threat of biological weapons and the destabilizing influence of misinformation. The workshops underscore the Philippines’ commitment to multilateralism and its belief in the power of international cooperation to address complex security challenges.