Loren Legarda

4-term Senator, Former Deputy Speaker/Antique Congresswoman, UN Global Champion for DRR, GCA Commissioner, CVF Ambassador for Parliaments

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Nagsisimula ang pagkatuto sa tamang nutrisyon. Kapag kulang ang bata sa sustansya sa murang edad, hindi lamang katawan ang naaapektuhan kundi pati utak, kakayahang matuto, at pag-asa sa kinabukasan. Ang lumalalang problema ng child stunting o pagkabansot ay malinaw na babala na kailangan nating palakasin ang mga programa sa kalusugan at nutrisyon, lalo na sa pinakaunang yugto ng buhay ng bata.

Nanawagan ako ng mas matibay na aksyon mula sa pamahalaan, paaralan, komunidad, at pribadong sektor upang matiyak na bawat batang Pilipino ay may sapat na pagkain at maayos na pag-aaruga. Ang laban sa child stunting ay laban para sa kinabukasan ng ating bansa, isang pamumuhunan sa talino, lakas at kakayahan ng bawat pamilya.

https://t.co/9Fo5L4swQI

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Mahigit dalawang dekada na ang nakalipas nang isulong ko ang batas sa tamang pamamahala ng basura, ang Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. Noon, marami ang nagtatanong kung bakit ito ang aking ipinaglalaban bilang batang Senador sa unang termino. Ngunit malinaw sa akin na kapag pinabayaan natin ang problemang ito, ang kapalit ay buhay ng tao.

Ang batas ay ginawa upang maiwasan ang mga trahedyang tulad ng Payatas at upang hindi na ito maulit sa iba pang pamayanan. Ngunit ang isang mabuting batas ay nagkakaroon lamang ng tunay na saysay kapag may maigting na implementasyon na ramdam ng bawat mamamayan.

Hanggang ngayon, ang mga trahedya sa Payatas, Binaliw, at Rizal ay nagpapatunay na hindi sapat ang pagkakaroon ng batas. Tungkulin nating tiyaking ito ay patuloy na pinatitibay at epektibong naipatutupad upang maprotektahan ang buhay, kabuhayan, at kinabukasan ng bawat pamayanan.

https://t.co/HhcsLEOoEA

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Sampung taon na ang lumipas mula nang maisabatas ang Republic Act No. 10908, o ang Integrated History Act of 2016. Bilang may-akda ng batas na ito, isinulong natin na maisama sa pagtuturo ng kasaysayan ng Pilipinas ang mga kuwento, kultura, at identidad ng ating mga kapatid na Filipino Muslim at mga Katutubong Pamayanan.

Magandang balikan ang batas na ito bilang isang hakbang tungo sa mas kumpleto at inklusibong pag-unawa sa ating bayan. Mas nagiging buo ang kasaysayan ng Pilipinas kapag kinikilala natin ang lahat ng pamayanang humubog at patuloy na nagpapayabong sa ating pagkakakilanlan bilang mga Pilipino.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

I collaborated with Solidaridad Bookshop to bring new life to its storied halls on Padre Faura, Ermita, Manila, through a literary conversation held on July 16 featuring Ivatan poet Dorian Merina in a dialogue on Laji: Poetry, Orality and the Ivatan Imagination.

Merina introduced the traditional oral poetic chant of the Ivatan people. It is sung rather than spoken, passed down orally across generations, and performed on occasions such as mourning, weddings, courtship, communal labor, and other significant gatherings. Melody is central to laji, with each village developing its own distinct style that reflects its landscape, identity and traditions.

https://t.co/ue8MAIJSFP

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

“Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan!”

Ngayong Nutrition Month, ating itampok ang mahalagang ugnayan ng masustansyang pagkain at pangangalaga sa kalikasan. Ang pagkakaroon ng ligtas, sapat, at masustansyang pagkain ay nagsisimula sa pangangalaga sa ating likas na yaman at sa pagsusulong ng mga paraan ng pagsasaka at kabuhayang makakalikasan.

Bilang tagapagtaguyod ng malusog at sustenableng pamumuhay, patuloy kong isinusulong ang mga batas na magpapabuti sa nutrisyon ng ating mga kababayan. Iniakda ko ang Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act, gayundin ang Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Mag-Nanay Act. Sa kasalukuyang Kongreso, inihain ko naman ang Food Forest Gardening Act.

Mahalagang bahagi rin ng pangangalaga sa kalikasan ang wastong pamamahala ng ating mga basura sa ilalim ng Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, na aking iniakda at inisponsoran. Kapag malinis ang ating komunidad at napangangalagaan ang lupa at mga pinagkukunan ng pagkain, mas nagiging ligtas at masustansya ang pagkaing napupunta sa ating mga hapag-kainan.

Magtulungan tayo para sa mas ligtas, abot-kaya, at masustansyang pagkain para sa lahat!🍎🥦🍊🥬

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

I am honored to have received Republic of Korea Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa during his farewell call at the Senate, where we reflected on the years that elevated Philippines–South Korea relations to a strategic partnership, sealed our free trade agreement, and deepened cooperation on climate resilience and development through the Global Green Growth Institute.

I also recalled my continuing collaboration with former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, whose message of encouragement affirms the initiatives we have pursued to strengthen communities and advance sustainable pathways. As a gesture of heritage and harmony, I presented Ambassador Lee the works Lemlúnay: Paggunita sa Gunita and Himig Hambing, which embody the richness of memory, culture, and the Filipino spirit.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Sharing this Philippine Star feature on the enduring connections between the Philippines and Germany through the life and legacy of Dr. José Rizal, and on our continuing efforts to advance his ideals through culture, scholarship, and climate action. His journey reminds us that imagination and knowledge can awaken nations, and that bridges built across borders remain vital today.

Thank you, @milletmananquil and Lisa Nakpil for this powerful piece.

Read full article here: https://t.co/BsibOOF4eC

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Education laws only matter when they are backed by real funding. Without resources, reforms risk becoming promises that never reach the students who need them most.

At the 32nd Anniversary of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), I recalled my role as then Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance when we secured ₱8 billion even before the Free College Education Law was passed, enabling 800,000 students in 112 SUCs, at that time, to study without tuition and fees. Last year, Congress added ₱11.8 billion to address deficits, but I stressed that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) must rely on accurate projected student data and ensure that funds are fully released.

This celebration is a reminder of what we can achieve together. I commend CHED, our educators, and partners for their continuing reforms and scholarship programs that expand opportunities for Filipino learners. Our shared commitment is clear, education with sufficient support, sustained funding, and a future that uplifts every student.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

The Constitution is clear and does not leave room for interpretation.

The Senate is composed of 24 Senators, and a majority of 13 constitutes a quorum to do business.

13 votes to constitute a quorum.

13 votes to elect officers.

A void election cannot create valid authority.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Education support where it matters most.

As Senate President Pro Tempore and principal sponsor and author of Senate Bill No. 1894, I co‑presided over the bicameral conference that adopted the reconciled measure strengthening the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. The bill ensures automatic Tertiary Education Subsidy support for Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) graduates and other disadvantaged learners, expands allowances for books, transport, computers, and housing, and requires Equity and Inclusion Plans to guarantee fair access for students from low‑income families and those with disabilities.

This measure moves us closer to an education system that uplifts the most vulnerable and gives every Filipino learner a fair chance to pursue higher education and build a better future.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Ensuring reliable electricity and accessible internet connectivity is essential to inclusive local development. In yesterday’s multi-sector briefing, held in coordination with the Aklan Information Communications and Technology Council, we worked with the National Electrification Administration, the Department of Energy, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, and the Antique and Aklan Electric Cooperatives to identify the root causes of service interruptions and recognize opportunities for improvement. Together, we drew up implementation plans to fund and complete substations, power lines, and last-mile electrification projects without imposing an immediate additional burden on consumers.

I also secured the commitment of local governments to help create a business-friendly environment for telecommunications providers by ensuring that no unnecessary costs or requirements will be imposed. The Department of Information and Communications Technology also committed to support internet services in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. In turn, service providers pledged to invest in infrastructure and improve their service packages to support the evolving job market and development needs of Antique and Aklan.

We will continue working with all stakeholders to resolve these long-standing problems and move development forward for our communities.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Sa paggunita ng Eid’l Adha, ipinapaabot ko ang pakikiisa sa ating mga kapatid na Muslim sa Pilipinas at sa iba’t ibang panig ng mundo. Ang okasyong ito ay paalala ng kahandaang magsakripisyo para sa pananampalataya at ng pagkakaisa na nagbubuklod sa komunidad.

Nawa’y magbigay-inspirasyon ang diwa ng pagdiriwang na ito upang patuloy nating palaganapin ang malasakit, pagtutulungan, at kapayapaan sa ating lipunan. Eid Mubarak!

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

It is with profound sorrow that I join the nation in mourning the tragic loss of First Lieutenant Ruth Angelique R. Pasos and Second Lieutenant Cherky E. Embudo of the Philippine Air Force. These two young and valiant pilots perished when their SF-260 trainer aircraft crashed amid the mountainous terrain of Tuba, Benguet, during a military training flight, while preparing to soar the skies in service of our motherland.

In their passing, we mourn our nation’s loss of a brilliant young woman and a courageous young man who offered the prime of their lives to the noble defense of the Filipino people.
Our soldiers and pilots stand ever ready to lay down their lives for the nation. In return, the Republic owes them far more than fleeting words of gratitude. We owe them the highest standards of protection, training, and equipment, so they may serve with courage and return home safely.

As a proud reservist of the Philippine Air Force, I hold a deep and personal reverence for the exceptional bravery of our aviators. The Philippine Air Force stands as a vigilant vanguard of our sovereignty, and the unyielding gallantry of its men and women remains an enduring source of inspiration and pride for our people. It is precisely because I recognize the immense sacrifices demanded of those who safeguard our skies that I firmly support the call for a thorough investigation into the root cause of this tragedy.

Today, we render our highest salute to First Lieutenant Pasos and Second Lieutenant Embudo and extend deepest and most heartfelt sympathies to their grieving families, their loved ones, their mistahs at the Philippine Military Academy, and their fellow airmen. Their valor, their sacrifice, and their undying love for our country shall forever be etched in the heart of our nation.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Sa pagtanggap ko ng tungkuling mamuno bilang Chairperson ng Senate Committee on Basic Education, agad akong nakipagpulong sa Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) bilang Co-Chairperson upang talakayin ang kalagayan ng ating mga paaralan, mga guro, mga mag aaral, at ang mas malawak na komunidad na nakapaligid sa sektor ng edukasyon. Naniniwala ako na basta nasa puso ang gawa, nagiging matibay ang ating panata sa paglilingkod.

Ipapatuloy ko ang mga reporma sa edukasyon, at gagawin ko ang lahat ng makakaya upang maisulong ang mga hakbang tungo sa mas inklusibo at makatarungang sistema. Para sa akin, ang tunay na tagumpay ay nasusukat sa kung paano natin naiaangat ang kalidad ng pagtuturo at pagkatuto, at kung paano natin napapalakas ang pundasyon ng kinabukasan ng ating bansa.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

The Senate today stood firm in preserving its dignity and in defending the Constitution, affirming with steadfast resolve that even in times of challenge, the institution upholds its role as a trusted guardian of democracy and a steady voice for the people.

As temporary presiding officer in my capacity as Senate President Pro Tempore, we approved on Second Reading Senate Bill No. 2092, An Act Declaring the Waling-waling as the National Orchid of the Philippines, where I serve as principal author and principal sponsor. This measure recognizes the Waling-waling as a symbol of our nation’s rich natural heritage and ensures stronger protection for the species, safeguarding its place in our culture and biodiversity.

We likewise supported the measure to strengthen the National Agriculture and Fisheries Extension System, establishing the Bureau of Agricultural Extension and providing funds to accelerate development in these vital sectors.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Plenary today moved forward with measures that matter. In my capacity as Senate President Pro Tempore, I served as temporary presiding officer and guided the session toward key reforms.

As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education and Co Chairperson of EDCOM II, I authored Senate Bill No. 1894, which was approved on third reading to enhance the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. The measure ensures that government education subsidies are better directed toward financially vulnerable students and broadens the Tertiary Education Subsidy to cover books, transportation, room and board, and other incidental expenses for grantees.

We also passed the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) Act, a measure which institutionalizes the DSWD’s crisis assistance program to ensure faster, clearer, and more accountable aid for Filipinos facing sudden hardship.

Dalawang mahalagang hakbang para masigurong may suporta sa edukasyon at may malasakit na tulong sa oras ng pangangailangan.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Hindi maisasakatuparan ang universal healthcare kung pira-piraso ang paglalabas ng pondo, laging huli ang remittance, at puro pagwawasto lamang pagkatapos ng pagkakamali.

Kailangang ilabas na ng pamahalaan ang natitirang pondong ayon sa batas ay nakalaan sa PhilHealth. Bawat pisong nakalaan para sa kalusugan ay dapat makarating sa taong pinaglilingkuran nito.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Tunay na kay yaman ng kultura at pamana ng Pilipinas. Ramdam at nakikita ito sa bawat hibla, gamit, kuwento, sayaw, at handog ng ating mga katutubo sa buong kapuluan. Kaya sa ating pagdiriwang ng National Heritage Month, itinatampok natin sa Senado ang ‘Buhay na Dunong: Bukal ng Pamana’—Schools of Living Traditions (SLTs) Exhibit, pagdiriwang ng ating pagkakakilanlan, karunungan, at walang hanggang pagmamalaki bilang Pilipino.

Sa pagbubukas nito noong ika-4 ng Mayo, pinatitibay natin ang tungkulin na ipasa ang karunungan sa susunod na henerasyon. Inaanyayahan ko kayo na dumalaw at ating pahalagahan ang kultura at pamana na siyang dangal ng ating bayan. Magbigay din sana ito ng parehong sigla at kabuluhan sa inyong buhay gaya ng ibinibigay nitong lakas at inspirasyon sa akin.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

Ngayong Health Workers Day, saksi tayo sa tibay at dedikasyon ng ating health workers. Sa ospital man, mga klinika, o sa barangay, sila ang patuloy na nagdadala ng pag-asa at katiyakan na may masasandalan ang bawat Pilipino pagdating sa kalusugan.

Bilang author ng Public Health Emergency Benefits and Allowances for Health Care Workers Act, isinulong natin ang batas na nagbigay ng tuluy-tuloy na benepisyo at allowance sa ating health care workers sa panahon ng public health emergencies. Kasabay nito, mula pa noong 2009 ay ipinaglaban ko ang panukalang Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers, na paulit-ulit kong inihain sa loob ng 17 taon, at kamakailan ay naging co-sponsor tayo sa plenaryo. Layunin nitong magbigay ng pagkilala, proteksyon, at dignidad sa ating barangay health workers mula sa makatarungang honoraria, plantilla inclusion, insurance, hanggang sa subsidiya para sa low income municipalities. Panahon na para maisabatas ito dahil ang tunay na progreso sa kalusugan ay nakasalalay sa pag aalaga sa mga naglilingkod sa ating barangay.

[Loren Legarda @loren_legarda]

As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education, I joined the Special Board of Regents Meeting of Batangas State University for the evaluation of its President.

I congratulate Dr. Tirso Ronquillo on his reappointment. His strong Performance Evaluation Report and the unanimous vote of the Board of Regents affirm his effective leadership and clear vision for the University. In the 18th Congress, I was one of the principal authors of the Revised Batangas State University Charter, strengthening its mandate as the National Engineering University. Dr. Ronquillo also serves as Executive Member of the National Innovation Council, created under the Philippine Innovation Act which I principally authored in the 17th Congress.