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.
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.
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.
As the leader of Kapunungan sa Gagmay'ng Mangingisda sa Concepcion (KGMC), Ballon initiated several projects that transformed his fishing community:
In October 2024, Ballon filed his certificate of candidacy for senator in the Philippines. His platform focuses on:
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:
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."
In 2021, Ballon was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award, often called "Asia's Nobel Prize," for his:
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:
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.
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.