Linar-Mae Orbista

Linar specializes in traditional, nontraditional and emerging security issues with a focus on internal security, energy security, external defense and cybersecurity. She concurrently serves as a program and research manager for the Stratbase Institute, where she conducts in-depth analysis and provides strategic insights on critical security developments.

Linar has extensive experience in research and advocacy, particularly in peace and development initiatives. She previously worked with the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy, where she contributed to programs promoting peace and development in the southern Philippines. She also served as a part-time research assistant for organizations such as the Ateneo Leong Institute for Global and Area Studies, the Ateneo Institute of Philippine Culture, Human Security Advocates and the National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections. She has participated in research projects on voter registration costs, climate security and geopolitical risks.

Linar’s expertise has led to invitations to speak on various platforms domestically and internationally. Notably, she was invited to speak at the 2023 ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)-U.S. Regional Workshop on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism in Bali, Indonesia. Linar is also a sitting member of the European Union’s Youth Sounding Board, which advises the delegation on the design and implementation of development cooperation initiatives on the green economy, peace and security and good governance.

Linar graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in diplomacy and international relations from Ateneo de Manila University, where she specialized in East and Southeast Asian studies.