The Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP) Annual Convention brings together brilliant minds in psychology to exchange knowledge, innovations, and insights. This year’s convention is truly special because we are privileged to be accompanied by the ASEAN Regional Union of Psychological Societies (ARUPS), transforming this into the international assembly of psychology professionals.
At the heart of this year’s theme, "Futurescaping Psychology: The Role of Psychology in Achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," exemplifies psychology’s powerful force that can help shape a better and more sustainable world. "Futurescaping" is about looking ahead, anticipating challenges, and taking strategic action to create a world where individuals and communities can thrive. Psychology plays a crucial role in this process because at the core of all global issues—whether it's poverty, education, mental health, or climate change—are human thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
This convention challenges us to think beyond the present and actively shape the future of psychology as it intersects with the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals: (1)No Poverty; (2) Zero Hunger – Achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture; (3) Good Health and Well-being – Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages; (4) Quality Education – Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities; (5) Gender Equality – Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls; (6) Clean Water and Sanitation – Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all; (7) Affordable and Clean Energy – Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy; (8) Decent Work and Economic Growth – Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work; (9) Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation; (10) Reduced Inequalities – Reduce inequality within and among countries; (11) Sustainable Cities and Communities – Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable; (12) Responsible Consumption and Production – Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns; (13) Climate Action – Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts; (14) Life Below Water – Conserve and sustainably use oceans, seas, and marine resources; (15) Life on Land – Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, forests, and biodiversity; (16) Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Promote peaceful and inclusive societies, justice for all, and accountable institutions; (17)Partnerships for the Goals – Strengthen global partnerships to support and achieve the SDGs.
Aligned with the ARUPS Congress, we are expanding the conversation beyond national borders, fostering international collaboration, and learning from diverse cultural perspectives. From addressing mental health disparities and fostering inclusive education to promoting environmental responsibility and peace-building, our goals can deliver meaningful changes in lives of people and society.
This regional partnership highlights the shared responsibility of psychologists across ASEAN to tackle global challenges together.
