Nicanor Perlas- The Practical Visionary

Nicanor Perlas, 59 years old, has a global reputation as a “practical visionary”. He sets goals that many consider impossible, moves into action, and succeeds. His achievements have benefited the lives of millions of Filipinos. PERLAS advocates a Platform of Governance that has SIX PILLARS. This platform aims to: Eradicate Poverty and Enhance Quality of Life Advance Moral and Effective Governance Uphold the Integrity of Creation Build Partnerships for Social Justice Promote Holistic Education and Inner Change Mainstream Visionary Initiatives Many said it was “impossible”: To stop the corrupt-ridden and dangerous Marcos Bataan Nuclear Power Plant; To stop bribery and ban 32 pesticide formulations poisoning millions of farmers; To inaugurate large-scale farming without toxic chemicals; To mainstream sustainable development in the country; To protect the jobs of millions of rice farmers from trade liberalization; To remove the scandal-prone Estrada from office. Yet Perlas not only dreamt the “impossible” but, together with others, achieved it, benefiting millions of Filipinos. In addition, he has helped thousands of poor farmers in over 25 provinces remove their addiction to harmful farm chemicals. Plus he helped inaugurate a micro-finance initiative that now benefits 240,000 micro-enterprising poor. Many prestigious organizations have given Perlas their highest award, cementing his reputation as a man of both vision and action. Perlas has received global awards for his work in governance, peace, environment, sustainable agriculture, global economic and financial management, globalization, among others. Manuel L. Quezon Award for Exemplary Governance (August 2009) Alternative Nobel Prize (Right Livelihood Award) (October 2003) The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) Award. (October 1994) UN Environmental Program Global 500 Roll of Honor (June 1994) Rev. William Masterson S.J. Award (March 1995) Many politicians promise to benefit the life of Filipinos yet fail to deliver on their promises. Perlas has already benefited the lives of millions of Filipinos without even promising them. He just did it. He walks his talk. “The true Philippines wants to be born. We are called to take courage, to take risks and to act out of our highest ideals and deepest sources of conviction. Then the impossible can happen. Then our true Philippines will emerge.” - Nicanor Perlas