Professor Manuwadi Hungspreugs is the first chemical oceanographer in Thailand. She is one of advocates for the establishment of the IOC sub-commission for the Western pacific, and a great promoter the need for strengthening regional capacity on marine pollution monitoring through the development of regional projects and conduct of workshops and training courses. After the establishment of IOC/WESTPAC she served in 90ies as the First and Second vice- chair of the commission. She made major contributions to training and education programmes in marine sciences in the region. Though retired she still dedicates her time in supporting junior marine scientists of Thailand.