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Having taken over in October of 2009, this gathering allowed a dialogue on the objectives, projects and partnerships of the KAS for the future. Dr. Köppinger, shared his observations during his 11 months here. He shared that with the new President, Benigno Simeon Aquino, III, comes the opportunity to make changes. In the foundation also came a new way of strengthening Philippine democracy: creating a critical mass of young professionals from all over the country, who protect human dignity, abide by the rule of law, believe and fight for equality, ensure socio-economic-political order, live and breathe centrist ideology.

Secretary Leila de Lima of the Department of Justice graced the blessing and expressed during her message: “I do believe that these values of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (i.e. democratic traditions, integration, solidarity, cooperation and shared responsibility) are significantly paralleled by the ideals upon which the new administration is based.” She admired the life of Konrad Adenauer and how he “valued the contribution and role of the people…a truly humanistic approach towards governance and leadership”.

Another special guest was no stranger to the Philippines - Member of the German Bundestag Sabine Weiss. The lawyer since the early 90s has regularly visited the province of Pangasinan in her spare time. She founded the Verein Pangasinan in 1992, a social development association aimed at assisting elevate the standard of living of the hometown (Malasiqui, Pangasinan) of her then client. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to dialogue with Philippine government officials and KAS Philippine partners. She looked forward to strengthening German and Philippine ties.