For his “inspiring determination in leading his fellow fisherfolk to revive a dying industry,” a community leader from Zamboanga Sibugay has been named one of the five recipients of the 2021 Ramon Magsaysay Award, the Asian equivalent of the Nobel Peace Prize. In an online ceremony announcing the awardees on Tuesday, the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) feted Roberto “Ka Dodoy” Ballon for helping transform the coastal life of his hometown, Kabasalan, to preserve both his fellow fishermen’s livelihood and the ecosystem on which they depend for survival.

Subingsubing, K. (2021, September 1). Zambo Sibugay fisherfolk leader among five 2021 Magsaysay Awardees. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. A4.