SU to host 2026 PPSA International Conference on democracy

Silliman University, through the History and Political Science Department of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), is set to host the 2026 International Conference of the Philippine Political Science Association (PPSA) from April 28 to 30, 2026, convening scholars, practitioners, and policy stakeholders to examine the evolving dynamics of democracy in the Philippines and beyond.

Anchored on the theme “Democracy: Navigating the Tensions of Unity and Division,” the three-day conference will feature plenary sessions, concurrent research presentations, and institutional discussions that explore pressing political issues, including governance reforms, political participation, and democratic resilience.

The conference formally opens on April 28 with welcome messages from University President Dr. Betty Cernol McCann, CAS Dean Dr. Alana Leilani C. Narciso, and PPSA President Dr. Reynold D. Agnes. The opening plenary will include a keynote lecture by Dr. Teresa Encarnacion Tadem, Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the University of the Philippines Diliman.

Throughout the conference, participants will engage in multiple concurrent sessions showcasing current research across various subfields of political science, followed by plenary discussions featuring leading scholars and experts. Day 2 includes another keynote lecture by Dr. Wataru Kusaka of the University of Tokyo, while Day 3 concludes with final concurrent sessions and the announcement of the next PPSA host institution.

A key highlight of the opening day is the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) plenary session in collaboration with the Anti-Dynasty Network (ADN), titled “Breaking the Cycle: Anti-Dynasty Reform as a Path to Inclusive Politics and Accountable Governance.” Scheduled from 1:00 to 2:30 PM, the session brings together prominent scholars and advocates, including Dr. Carmel Abao, Dr. Melissa Lao, and Dr. Julio Teehankee, alongside Kiko Aquino-Dee, Jeff Ortega of the National Youth Commission, and Jess Pasibe.

Moderated by Atty. Golda Benjamin of the Silliman University College of Law and Marie Antoinette de Jesus of KAS Philippines, the plenary will examine the persistence of political dynasties and explore reform pathways toward more inclusive and accountable governance.

The three-day gathering is expected to generate conversations that extend beyond the conference halls, as scholars and practitioners exchange insights on some of the most pressing questions confronting democratic life.