# Roberto Ballon

Roberto "Ka Dodoy" Amido Ballon Jr. (born May 24, 1968) is a Filipino fisherman, environmental advocate, and community leader known for his work in sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation. He received the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2021 for his contributions to environmental conservation and community development. In 2024, he entered national politics as a senatorial candidate.

## Early life and education

Roberto Ballon was born on May 24, 1968, in Pilar, Capiz, Philippines. At the age of 13, his family relocated to Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay. During his youth, he was actively involved in organizing fellow young people for various activities at the local Catholic parish, demonstrating his early leadership skills. Despite not having a formal college education, Ballon's grassroots experiences and dedication to community service became the foundation of his advocacy work.

## Career

Ballon began his career as a small-scale fisherman in Zamboanga Sibugay. Facing the challenges of depleted fish stocks and environmental degradation, he emerged as a community leader advocating for sustainable fishing practices.

### Leadership and environmental work

As the leader of Kapunungan sa Gagmay'ng Mangingisda sa Concepcion (KGMC), Ballon initiated several projects that transformed his fishing community:
* Led mangrove reforestation efforts, planting over 500 hectares of mangroves, which restored marine biodiversity and protected coastal areas from erosion and storm surges.
* Implemented sustainable fishing practices, including the establishment of marine sanctuaries and the promotion of responsible fishing methods.
* Organized fellow fishermen into cooperative groups to strengthen their collective bargaining power and improve their livelihoods.
* Developed alternative livelihood programs, such as crab farming and eco-tourism, to reduce dependence on fishing.

### Politics

In October 2024, Ballon filed his certificate of candidacy for senator in the Philippines. His platform focuses on:
* Maritime security enhancement: Strengthening the protection of Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea and other contested waters.
* Protection of Filipino fishermen's rights: Advocating for policies that ensure fair access to fishing grounds and resources.
* Environmental conservation: Promoting sustainable practices and policies to protect marine ecosystems.
* Sustainable fishing practices: Encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly fishing methods to ensure long-term food security.

### Advocacy on West Philippine Sea

Ballon has been vocal about strengthening maritime security in the West Philippine Sea in favor of the Philippines' claim in the territorial dispute. In June 2024, he joined other fishers' groups in calling for:
* Enhanced protection for Filipino fishermen operating in contested waters.
* Increased maritime patrols to deter illegal fishing and foreign incursions.
* Better support for small-scale fishing communities affected by territorial disputes.
* Protection of Philippine territorial waters through diplomatic and legal means.

## Notable speeches and public engagements
### UP Visayas address

In July 2024, Ballon delivered a memorable speech at UP Visayas, addressing the graduating Class Haraya. Speaking in a mix of Filipino and English, he humbly acknowledged his lack of formal education while emphasizing his dedication to service:
"Wala akong kurso kagaya ninyo," (I don't have a degree like you do) Ballon stated, adding "Ang kurso na mayroon ako ay ang kursunada. Ito ang kursunada ko na magsilbi sa tao, sa aking pamayanan." (The only course I have is my passion. This is my passion—to serve the people, to serve my community.)
During his speech, he shared the challenges he faced in his environmental advocacy, particularly in mangrove reforestation. His group was initially ridiculed as "lunatics" by community members. They persisted despite skepticism, with Ballon encouraging his team: "Magtanim lang tayo nang magtanim ng mangroves para balang araw, maibabalik natin ang ating kabuhayan." (Let's keep planting mangroves so that one day, we can restore our livelihood.) Their efforts eventually succeeded in restoring local biodiversity and providing livelihood opportunities.
Ballon emphasized the importance of genuine service, stating "Ang matuod nga serbisyo, wala naga hulat sang balik" (Genuine service does not expect anything in return). His message resonated with the graduating class, highlighting how his grassroots environmental work led to "a more united and empowered community."

## Awards and recognition

In 2021, Ballon was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award, often called "Asia's Nobel Prize," for his:
* Leadership in transforming his fishing community.
* Success in mangrove reforestation and marine conservation.
* Creation of sustainable livelihood programs.
* Work in protecting marine resources and advocating for fishermen's rights.
The award recognized his "inspiring determination in leading his fellow fisherfolk to revive a dying fishing industry by creating a sustainable marine environment."
Other awards received by Ballon include:
* National Gawad Natatanging Parangal (Distinguished Award) for fish conservation - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (2019).
* Ateneo de Zamboanga School of Medicine Award - Most Outstanding Fisherfolk Organization Leader (2011).
* Most Outstanding Fisherfolk in Zamboanga Sibugay (2006).
* Quedan and Rural Credit Guarantee Corporation Award - Self-Resilient Team Program (Fish Culture Category).
* Department of Agriculture's National Gawad Saka Award (2005).
* Gawad Saka Award in Zamboanga Sibugay (2003, 2004).
These recognitions span nearly two decades of Ballon's work in environmental conservation, sustainable fishing practices, and community leadership. His consistent recognition at both regional and national levels demonstrates the sustained impact of his initiatives in marine conservation and community development.

## Personal life

Ballon is married to Rebecca Magsalay, and the couple resides in Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay. He continues to work closely with local communities, promoting sustainable fishing practices and environmental conservation.