By David Ingles

More than 650 participants, coming from six continents of the world, representing 31 countries have started to arrive in Quezon City, Philippines to attend the 5th International Meeting on Social Solidarity Economy to be held on 15 -18 October 2013 at the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.  The aim of the conference is to discuss ways to promote an alternative economic system – the solidarity (bayanihan) economic system as oppose to the prevailing capitalist system.

The conference is held every 4 years and was initially held in Lima, Peru on 1997 . Through the years, the citizens of the world who aspire for a better economic system that serves People, Planet and promotes equitable and just Prosperity and Peace have grown exponentially  world-wide.

The conference aims to identify the various people’s pro –active response  to achieve a world that is productive, compassionate while preserving the environment. It will likewise distill working principles, build on these innovative initiatives and chart ways to influence policy and spread its adoption across the globe.

The meeting is open to the public. A joining fee of 2000 pesos (50 dollars) is charged for participation.