Antonio A. Oposa Jr. is one of Asia’s leading voices in the global arena of Environmental Law. His work is known for telling a story in the Philippine Supreme Court: That every generation has a duty to ensure that Life-Sources will still be available for future generations. His legal work extends from the court of law to direct enforcement action against environmental crime syndicates. Visayan Sea Squadron.
In 2008, after a ten-year lonesome legal battle against 13 Philippine Government agencies, he won an unprecedented continuing mandamus. The Supreme Court issued an Order directing all concerned agencies to clean up Manila Bay. They were also ordered to report its progress to the Supreme Court every 90 days, until the waters will be clean enough to be swimmable. He was given the 2015 Inuoye Distinguished Chair of the University of Hawaii.
Asia’s highest recognition for public service – The Ramon Magsaysay Award – noted his path-breaking and passionate crusade to engage Filipinos in acts of enlightened citizenship. To maximize the power of the Law — to protect and nurture the Environment — for themselves, their children, and generations yet unborn.
He holds the Normandy Chair for Peace.
