The Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) announces the appointment of its Board of Trustees and Officers for 2025, marking a new chapter in its mission of honoring greatness spirit and transformative leadership in Asia.
For 2025, the Foundation’s Board of Trustees will be led by Edgar O. Chua as Chairperson. Suzanne E. Siskel, Gizela M. Gonzales-Montinola, and Susanna B. Afan will continue their posts as Vice Chairperson, Treasurer and President respectively.
RMAF Chairperson Edgar O. Chua shared, “It is a privilege to lead the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation’s Board of Trustees. My hope for the Foundation is that through the work of the Board, we can continue to honor and support individuals who embody the values of integrity, service to the community, and compassion—values that define the greatness of spirit we seek to promote. In searching for ordinary men, women, and organizations doing extraordinary work across Asia, we aim to connect them with global resources and inspire the next generation of leaders. This enables the Foundation to remain sustainable and impactful, fostering dialogue, inspiring action, and creating a ripple effect for generations to come.”
Edgar O. Chua, an accomplished leader in business and governance, with over 38 years of experience in the chemicals industry and corporate strategy, including 13 years as Shell Philippines Country Chairman. Suzanne E. Siskel is a respected advocate for international development as the Executive Vice President and COO of The Asia Foundation. Gizela M. Gonzales-Montinola is a lawyer and business leader with an extensive history of philanthropy and non-profit service, including her work with the Consuelo Madrigal Foundation and Caritas Manila.
This year, the Foundation welcomes two Filipinos as new Trustees. Joining the Foundation are Br. Edmundo Fernandez, President of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, La Salle Greenhills and De La Salle Lipa among others, and Conchita Carpio Morales, a former Ombudsman of the Philippines and a 2016 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee.
Completing the roster of the Foundation’s leadership is returning Trustee Dr. Maria Cynthia Rose Bautista, former VP for Academic Affairs of the University of the Philippines. Dr. Bautista was the Foundation’s Chairperson from 2011 to 2012.
RMAF President Susan B. Afan expressed, “The Foundation looks forward to taking bold new directions under the leadership of our 2025 Board of Trustees. With the many pressing issues facing our region, we at the Foundation are confident that our diverse and accomplished Trustees will help advance our mission, foster positive change, and guide our work in selecting and supporting individuals and organizations that make a lasting impact. Their expertise and commitment will play a key role in ensuring the Foundation’s continued growth, sustainability, and relevance in addressing the challenges of today and tomorrow.”
The announcement of the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees is scheduled for August 31, 2025. The recipients will formally receive their certificates and medallions during the 67th Ramon Magsaysay Awards Presentation Ceremonies, which will take place on November 7, 2025 in Manila, Philippines.