MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Antonio “Tony” La Viña, one of the Philippines’ most influential environmental lawyers and human rights advocates, has spent decades shaping policy, defending rights, and mentoring generations of changemakers. From his pivotal role in environmental law to his tireless advocacy for human rights, La Viña has consistently been at the forefront of law, justice, and social change in the Philippines.
His upcoming memoir, “Ransomed by Love: A Changemaker’s Unfinished Journey,” published by Southern Voices Printing Press, transcends the traditional boundaries of a memoir, weaving together themes of resilience, mental health, and unwavering hope.
In “Ransomed by Love,” La Viña courageously shares his 65-year journey, including his battles with manic depression, ADHD, and a stage 4 cancer diagnosis. Rather than simply chronicling these challenges, he transforms them into powerful lessons for the next generation of changemakers, offering a blueprint for living a meaningful and productive life in the face of adversity.
Former Senator Leila De Lima describes the memoir as “a must-read for human rights defenders and social justice advocates,” noting how La Viña’s journey “criss-crosses causes and generations, his achievements spanning a lifetime of teaching and selfless service.”
“This memoir is more than just a record of my journey,” says La Viña. “It’s a testament to the power of hope and resilience, and most importantly, an invitation to the next generation to face the future with insight and confidence, despite the challenges they may encounter.”
The book has already garnered significant praise from diverse voices in Philippine society. Dean Francis Alfar, Chair of the Filipino Critics Circle, lauds it as “a frank, compelling, erudite, and open look back at everything that shaped his life,” while renowned Mindanao scholar Brother Karl Gaspar CSsR commends La Viña’s courage in baring his soul to readers.
Maria Socorro Manguiat, Deputy Executive Secretary of the Montreal Protocol, adds a personal touch: “As a former boss and lifelong friend, Tony showed me the dignity of public service and the beauty of a career in environmental and climate protection. Mine is not a unique story, as his memoir reveals.”
“Ransomed by Love” will be launched on November 29, 2024, at 5 PM in Leong Hall, Ateneo de Manila University and in La Viña’s hometown Cagayan De Oro on December 1. Pre-orders are currently available at https://bit.ly/RansomedByLove.
