Phuong won the 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Award for championing the fight against the devastating effects of Agent Orange used in the Vietnam War, seeking justice for victims while pioneering reproductive health solutions and offering hope to affected families. Phuong, who became a doctor during the war, was deeply affected by witnessing severe birth defects in newborns. This led her to dedicate her life to uncovering the truth about Agent Orange, aiding the afflicted through her research and working with the Vietnam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin.

For Phoung, the battle has not only been in the laboratory but also on the international stage. She has taken up the cause of Agent Orange victims with the American Public Health Association, among other forums, and supported legal action to seek compensation from chemical companies.

(Photo: Raymond Magsaysay Award Foundation)