ECONVERGENCE 2026 spotlights disaster economics in the Philippines

Every year, the Philippines faces disasters that leave not only destruction but lasting economic consequences. Despite decades of research and experience, disaster preparedness continues to lag, trapping the country in a cycle of repeated rebuilding. Billions of pesos are spent each year on rehabilitation, with little long-term mitigation in place.

The UPLB Economic Society’s ECONVERGENCE aims to confront this reality head-on in its 21st iteration. With the theme “The Cost of Calamities: Unpacking the Economics of Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction in the Philippines,” the convention reframes disasters as economic events that can significantly influence national development outcomes.

Youth at the forefront of economic awareness

Scheduled for January 17–18, 2026 at the NCAS Auditorium, University of the Philippines Los Baños, ECONVERGENCE 2026 brings together students, educators, and thought leaders to explore the costs of being unprepared. The event combines keynote talks, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive activities to provide a comprehensive learning experience.

With 16 high schools participating from across the country, the convention emphasizes youth engagement. By empowering young minds to analyze socio-economic issues, ECONVERGENCE 2026 encourages students to spark awareness, foster dialogue, and inspire actionable solutions within their communities.

The two-day event demonstrates that students are not only learners but also contributors to shaping public understanding of disaster preparedness. By connecting environmental phenomena with economic outcomes, ECONVERGENCE equips the next generation with tools to challenge the cycle of reactive rebuilding.