The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) held a testimonial dinner on October 7, 2025, to honor former PIDS Presidents Dr. Aniceto C. Orbeta Jr. and Dr. Celia M. Reyes, and former Board Member and now DENR Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla for their exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to evidence-based policymaking.
Secretary Lotilla, an economist, lawyer, and reformist public servant, was lauded for championing renewable energy, leading critical power sector reforms, and guiding PIDS with integrity and sound judgment.
Dr. Reyes, the first woman to head the Institute, pioneered the Community-Based Monitoring System—now institutionalized by law—and steered PIDS through the pandemic while strengthening its global standing.
Dr. Orbeta was recognized for advancing impact evaluation in Philippine policymaking, leading over 200 research projects, and driving the Institute’s digital transformation and policy influence.
The event gathered members of the PIDS Board of Trustees and the policy community to celebrate a shared legacy of excellence in research and public service.
