During the two-day 6th Asian Mediation Association (AMA) Conference held at Shangri-La the Fort in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig City on October 15 and 16, 2024, discussions revolved around the theme "Harmony and Strategic Innovations in Mediation and ADR," particularly in relation to mediation and alternative methods of resolving misunderstandings.
According to the National Center for Mediation, mediation is a process where a trained neutral third party, or mediator, leads the negotiation between the two disputing parties.
ADR, on the other hand, are methods used to resolve disputes without the need to go through the court.
Global experts who are practitioners in mediation and ADR attended the two-day conference.
First Lady Marie Louise "Liza" Araneta, who is also a lawyer, was the honored guest at the opening ceremony, which was also attended by Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano.
In a post on her Facebook Page, Cayetano expressed that it is a great honor for Taguig City to have been chosen as the venue for the prestigious conference.
"Taguig City is honored to be the venue for the 6th Asian Mediation Association Conference, bringing together leaders in mediation and dispute resolution from across Asia. We also thank this year's host, the Philippine Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, for choosing our city to be part of this event. We fully support the association's vision of fostering peaceful conflict resolution and look forward to a meaningful and productive gathering," said Cayetano.
Meanwhile, in her opening remarks, Philippine Judicial Academy Chancellor Rosmari Carandang stated that mediation is a testament to the world's continued desire for peace and unity amid conflicts.
"In mediation, we find a way to not only resolve disputes but also to strengthen the bonds of cooperation, respect, and understanding among people, communities, and nations," said Carandang.
(Photos from the Facebook Page: Lani Cayetano)
