Professor Rommel C. Banlaoi is a leading Filipino political scientist and security analyst specializing in terrorism, political violence, and regional security in Southeast Asia. He is the Chairman of the Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research (PIPVTR), where he leads research on counterterrorism, insurgency, and peacebuilding. With decades of experience in academia and policy work, Prof. Banlaoi has taught in prominent universities and has served as a resource person for government agencies, international organizations, and security institutions. He is widely recognized for his contributions to understanding extremist movements, maritime security, and geopolitical developments in the Indo-Pacific. A prolific author, he has written numerous books, journal articles, and policy papers that have informed both national and regional security strategies. He is also a frequent speaker at international conferences and a trusted media commentator on defense and security issues. Prof. Banlaoi’s work bridges scholarship and policy, helping shape informed discourse on peace, security, and strategic affairs in the Philippines and beyond.