The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) 2025 Awarding Ceremony

Kalayaan Hall, Malacañan Palace
January 22, 2026

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto led the recognition of exceptional Filipinos whose active citizenship, servant leadership and relentless drive to create positive change have uplifted communities and helped shape a brighter future for the Philippines.

During the awarding ceremony for The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) 2025 at Kalayaan Hall in Malacañan Palace, four (4) individuals out of more than 100 nominees received the distinction: Dr. John Jamir Benzon Aruta (Environmental and Climate Psychology), Atty. Raymond Marvic Baguilat (Law, Human Rights and Indigenous Peoples), Rafael Ignacio Dionisio (Regenerative Tourism and Circular Economy) and Dr. Deo Florence Onda (Marine Science and Sustainability).

“The theme of this year’s celebration could not be more fitting: Excellence in Action, Building a Better Tomorrow. In this age of the Bagong Pilipinas, excellence must be in our every endeavor so we can have a lasting impact on the lives of our fellow citizens,” said Executive Secretary Recto in his message.

He urged the awardees, whose stories reinforce the importance of service, commitment and caring for others, to continue leading with integrity and acting with compassion in their fields. He also described them as the emboldened generation guided by purpose and committed to service.

The Executive Secretary expressed gratitude to Junior Chamber International (JCI) Philippines and the TOYM Foundation for upholding the tradition of the annual national recognition that challenges the Filipino youth to serve their countrymen with a deep sense of purpose.

“To all young Filipinos watching, I hope these awardees inspire you to hold yourselves to the highest standards in everything you do. Always keep in mind that excellence becomes possible when we choose to use our talents in the service of others,” he continued.

“Again, congratulations, and may we never lose sight of the reason why we do this work, why we serve, and why we wake up each day – and that is to build a better tomorrow for all,” Executive Secretary Recto ended his message.

Since its founding in 1959, TOYM has recognized hundreds of distinguished Filipinos who have excelled in their fields and made meaningful contributions to society. Over the years, this esteemed award has not only honored the recipients but also serves as a guiding light of inspiration for the younger generation of Filipinos.


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