The University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P), through the Center for Research and Communication Foundation, Inc. (CRCFI), recently played a key role in the development of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas’ (CFO) 10-year Strategic Roadmap (2026–2035). The roadmap was the result of the first-ever comprehensive institutional assessment conducted within six months in partnership with CRCFI.

Drawing on a data-driven and policy-oriented approach, CRCFI lead researchers Dr. Veronica Esposo Ramirez, Executive Director of UA&P’s University Research Office, and Mr. Lambert Ramirez examined the CFO’s mandate, organizational capacity, and long-term role in diaspora governance, providing strategic recommendations to guide the agency’s transformation over the next decade.

The resulting roadmap outlines a phased strategy that emphasizes policy leadership, digital transformation, stakeholder engagement, and institutional strengthening, with the broader goal of deepening the Philippines’ engagement with its global Filipino community. Anchored on the concept of transnationalism and the “diaspora lifecycle,” the framework seeks to ensure that programs and services respond to Filipinos at every stage of migration.

The roadmap was formally presented to CFO officials led by CFO Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II during a recent briefing in Pasay City, marking a milestone for the agency and underscoring UA&P’s continued commitment to research that informs public policy and national development.

The full CFO press release may be accessed here.

(L-R) CRC lead researchers Mr. Lambert Ramirez and URO Executive Director Dr. Veronica Ramirez with CFO Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II and CFO Undersecretary Ma. Arlene Borja, who received the paintings gifted by Dr. Ramirez. "The Filipino diaspora is like the dandelion," said Dr. Ramirez about her paintings. "When blown, its petals and seeds scatter everywhere. Upon dispersal, the seeds reach the ground, where they multiply and grow. Who looks after the Filipino diaspora scattered all over the globe? The Commission on Filipinos Overseas does." Photo from the CFO website.