The Board of Trustees, Officers, and Staff of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and relatives of Vo-Tong Xuan. A 1993 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee for Government Service from Vietnam, Xuan’s pioneering innovations in rice cultivation turned the Mekong Delta into a thriving agricultural hub, improving food security across Southeast Asia.
Vo-Tong Xuan, who played a key role in popularizing IR36 and MTL30 rice varieties in the 1980-85 period, passed away due to an illness on August 19 at the age of 83 at a HCMC hospital.
Born in 1940 in Long An Province, Vietnam, Xuan grew up witnessing the struggles of rural farmers. This experience led him to pursue a doctorate in agronomy from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. Xuan’s pioneering innovations in rice cultivation transformed the Mekong Delta into a thriving agricultural hub. His expertise led to the development of high-yield, pest-resistant rice varieties, which greatly boosted production and improved farmers’ livelihoods. His leadership as Rector of An Giang University further advanced agricultural education and research in Vietnam, impacting future generations.
Vo-Tong Xuan teaching and guiding farmers in some African countries in growing rice
His influence extended beyond Vietnam, impacting agricultural practices throughout Southeast Asia. His collaboration with international organizations fostered food security and promoted environmentally sustainable farming.
In receiving the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1993, he was recognized for “his combining practical scientific research and effective advocacy to improve the lives of Vietnam’s farmers.” His contributions have left an enduring legacy.
Vo-Tong Xuan received the medallion during the Ramon Magsaysay Awards Presentation Ceremonies held August 31, 1993. Handing the Ramon Magsaysay Award to them is Fidel V. Ramos, President of the Philippines (center), and Deogracias N. Vistan, Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation Chairman (right).
Even in retirement, Xuan advocated for smallholder farmers and sustainable policies. His legacy of innovation and compassion will continue to inspire agronomists and changemakers.
Vo-Tong Xuan’s memory will live on in the fertile fields of the Mekong Delta and in the hearts of those he mentored and inspired throughout his remarkable life.