The 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award, often called Asia’s Nobel Prize, has been conferred on three recipients — Foundation to Educate Girls Globally (India), Shaahina Ali (Maldives), and Flaviano Antonio L. Villanueva (Philippines). Founded by Safeena Husain, Educate Girls has transformed access to schooling for girls in rural India.
1 / 6The Board of Trustees of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) on Sunday, August 31, announced the recipients of the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award, widely regarded as Asia’s premier prize and highest honour. The announcement also marked the opening of the 67th Ramon Magsaysay Awards Festival Season, a series of events celebrating transformative leadership and the greatness of spirit that have shaped Asia and continue to inspire the world. Here are the three awardees forthis year. (Image Source: X)
2 / 6The Foundation to Educate Girls Globally, popularly known as Educate Girls, has been named a recipient of the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award. The India-based organization is being honoured for its commitment to breaking cultural stereotypes by empowering girls and young women through education. The citation lauded Educate Girls for liberating children from the “bondage of illiteracy” and equipping them with the skills, courage, and agency needed to realise their full human potential. (Image Source: Official Website)
3 / 6Shaahina Ali of the Maldives has been named a recipient of the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award. She is being recognised for her commitment to protecting the country’s marine ecosystem with passion, vision, and inclusivity. The award citation noted that her efforts ensure future generations of Maldivians will continue seeking effective local solutions to pressing global environmental challenges. (Image Source: Official Website)
4 / 6Flaviano Antonio L. Villanueva of the Philippines has been named one of the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees. He is being honoured for his lifelong mission to uphold the dignity of the poor and the oppressed. The award citation highlighted his faith and service, noting how he has consistently shown that by caring for the least in society, the dignity of all is restored. (Image Source: Official Website)
5 / 6Each of the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees will receive a medallion bearing the likeness of President Ramon Magsaysay, a certificate of citation, and a cash prize. The 67th Ramon Magsaysay Award Presentation Ceremonies are scheduled for Friday, November 7, 2025, at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila, Philippines. (Image Source: X)
6 / 6Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) President Susanna B. Afan said the theme “Illuminating Our Future” resonates strongly with the lives and works of the 2025 awardees. “In their unwavering dedication, we see not only solutions to pressing issues today but also sparks of hope for generations to come,” Afan remarked. “Their greatness of spirit reminds us that even in uncertain times, there are always those who can help chart the way forward.” She added that the journeys of India’s Educate Girls, Shaahina Ali of the Maldives, and Fr. Flaviano Antonio L. Villanueva of the Philippines show that the call to serve selflessly transcends borders, generations, and circumstances. (Image Source: SMF Foundation)
