Taiwanese Diplomat Joins DSS Week Dialogue on Security and Heroism
As part of the 52nd founding anniversary celebration of the Department of Social Sciences (DSS), students from PI 100 TFE2, under the guidance of Assoc. Prof. Bernard Leo M. Karganilla, hosted “Heroes Beyond Borders: A Dialogue with Foreign Ambassadors” on April 22, 2025, at RH 302, College of Arts and Sciences (CAS).
The featured guest speaker was Retired Lieutenant General Li Ting-Sheng, Deputy Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines. Backed by his distinguished military and diplomatic background, Deputy Representative Lee delivered a timely discussion on historical legacy and contemporary geopolitical issues.
The lecture started with a comparative reflection on the lives and contributions of Taiwan’s Chiang Kai-shek and the Philippines’ Jose Rizal. Lee highlighted Chiang Kai-shek’s role as a key leader of the Nationalist government against the Communist
Party of China. He outlined his major contributions, including land reform, education reforms such as the implementation of nine-year compulsory education in 1968, advocacy for democracy, the abolition of child bride practices from the 1940s to 1970s, promotion of human rights, and anti-corruption efforts.
The second part of the lecture addressed current regional security challenges. Lee emphasized the growing tensions in the Taiwan Strait, citing China’s aggressive military posturing, cyber isolation strategies, and the propagation of disinformation leading to a cognitive warfare. He warned that similar tactics could be deployed in the West Philippine Sea, highlighting the importance of bilateral cooperation in strengthening the Indo-Pacific island chain defense strategy.
In attendance were CAS Dean Maria Teresa de Guzman, who also delivered the opening remarks; Assistant Professor Atoy M. Navarro, Head of the Area Studies Program; Mr. Lakan Uhay D. Alegre of the University of the Philippines Diliman; and DSS-CAS alumnus Mr. Raymond Ciriaco.
A brief open forum discussion was conducted following the lecture where the students had the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the guest speaker. Afterwards, the Certificate and Token of Appreciation was awarded to Deputy Representative Lee for his time and valuable insights. The program concluded with a photo opportunity and expressions of gratitude from the organizers.
This dialogue marks the opening of a week-long series of lectures as part of DSS Week 2025. Representatives from the embassies of Russia, South Africa, Slovenia and Vietnam are expected to follow in succeeding sessions.
Photo credits to: PI 100 TFE2 Class
