20 September 2024, Philippines: Dasho Lhatu, Executive Director of the Gross National Happiness Centre Bhutan, was one of the keynote speakers at the 8th International Design Conference on September 20, 2024, in Metro Manila, Philippines.

He shared Bhutan's unique approach to holistic and sustainable development, guided by the philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH). In his statement he highlighted how His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan introduced GNH with the belief that "GNH is more important than Gross National Product." He explained how GNH aims to balance material and non-material growth by prioritizing people’s well-being (spiritual and emotional) combined with cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and good governance, even amidst the challenges posed by modernization.

Dasho Lhatu called on leaders and citizens to rethink and refocus development efforts by shifting their mindset towards promoting social progress, people’s greater well-being and happiness, and environmental protection through sustainable economic practices. In addition to the conference, Dasho Lhatu engaged in GNH dialogues with various organizations, including the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Media and the University of the Philippines.

The five-day program, held from September 18-22, 2024, brought together a diverse range of participants from within the Philippines and around the world.