“A Prophet of Our Time”: Philippine Bishops Hail Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Fr. Flavie, SVD
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has extended heartfelt congratulations to Fr. Flaviano “Flavie” Villanueva, SVD, who was named one of the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees, Asia’s most prestigious honor.
CBCP President Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, Bishop of Kalookan, praised Fr. Villanueva’s prophetic ministry, describing it as a courageous witness of faith and compassion.
“Fr. Flavie’s tireless work of restoring dignity to victims of extrajudicial killings and their families during the dark years of the war on drugs stands as a bold testimony of faith in action,” Cardinal David said in a message on behalf of the Philippine bishops.
The bishops highlighted how Fr. Villanueva has given “voice to the voiceless, hope to the grieving, and strength to the weak,” embodying the Church’s mission of justice, peace, and the sanctity of life.
They also acknowledged the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation’s recognition of Fr. Villanueva as a “prophet of our time,” one who stands courageously with the poor, the oppressed, and the marginalized, while reminding the Church of its Gospel call to defend human dignity.
The CBCP expressed gratitude to God for Fr. Villanueva’s recognition and prayed that he may remain steadfast in his mission “as a servant-leader of Christ and shepherd of His people.”
“May his witness continue to inspire not only the faithful of our nation but also the peoples of Asia and the world, showing that faith indeed acts in love,” Cardinal David added.
The Ramon Magsaysay Award, often regarded as Asia’s Nobel Prize, honors individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to public service, leadership, and humanitarian work.
The Foundation cited Fr. Villanueva for his exceptional service to the homeless in Manila through the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Center, which provides shelter, food, and holistic care. He was also recognized for his ministry to the families of victims of the war on drugs, offering compassion, dignity, and accompaniment amid grief and loss.
The 67th Ramon Magsaysay Award Presentation Ceremonies will be held on November 7, 2025, at the Metropolitan Theatre in Manila. Each awardee will receive a medallion bearing the likeness of President Ramon Magsaysay, a certificate of citation, and a cash prize.
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