Fr. Flaviano Villanueva Honored with 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Advocacy on Drug War Victims

Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David has expressed strong support for the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation's decision to honor Fr. Flaviano Antonio Villanueva for his exemplary efforts in assisting victims of the Philippine drug war.

The Society of the Divine Word priest has been named among the recipients of the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award, often regarded as Asia’s equivalent of the Nobel Prize.

"This recognition affirms his prophetic ministry among the poor, especially his courageous work of giving dignity to victims of extrajudicial killings and their families, and his tireless advocacy for human rights, justice, and compassion," Cardinal David said.

He further noted that the Award Foundation "could not have chosen a more fitting servant-leader to inspire Asia and the world with faith that acts in love."

Highlighting the priest’s dedication, Cardinal David emphasized that Villanueva "embodies the spirit of the Church’s social teachings and the Gospel call to uphold the sacredness of life."

Fr. Villanueva was recognized primarily for his leadership of the "Paghilom" program, launched in 2016. The initiative offers comprehensive support to widows and orphans of drug war victims, focusing on healing and empowerment.

The program provides grief counseling, legal support, livelihood training, and educational assistance to help affected families rebuild their lives. Through these services, "Paghilom" serves as a beacon of hope for those grappling with the aftermath of extrajudicial violence.