President Marcos believes that the country’s future is secure in the hands of young Filipinos who have chosen service, integrity, and excellence, following the awarding of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) 2025 at Malacañan on Thursday, Jan. 22.

In his speech, delivered by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, the President said the awardees embody an emboldened generation whose work is driven by purpose and whose impact already shapes communities and institutions across the country.

“Through your work, and more importantly, the impact you have created, I am confident that the Philippines is in good hands,” Marcos said.

The President stressed that excellence must go beyond personal achievement and translate into concrete service to the nation.

“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,” he said.

Marcos reminded the awardees that leadership demands conviction and compassion, urging them to continue using their talents for the benefit of others.

“Always keep in mind that excellence becomes possible when we choose to use our talents in the service of others,” he added.

President Marcos cited the diverse advocacies and fields represented by this year’s honorees, from defending indigenous peoples’ rights and restoring forests with partner communities, to advancing climate and mental health research and leading scientific expeditions in Philippine waters.

Each awardee, the President said, demonstrated that leadership anchored on purpose can uplift the marginalized and contribute to national progress.

“In you, we see an emboldened generation that is guided by purpose and committed to service,” he said.

TOYM is an annual national recognition given to Filipinos aged 18 to 40 and is organized by JCI Philippines with the support of the TOYM Foundation and partner organizations.

Established in 1959, the TOYM Awards have recognized hundreds of outstanding young Filipinos whose achievements continue to inspire future generations.

This year’s JCI Philippines theme, “Build Better,” reflects the honorees’ efforts to create stronger communities and empower those often left unheard.