As the new year dawns, Senator Loren Legarda has taken a moment to reflect on the significant strides made in 2024, a year she describes as one of resilience and progress for the Philippines. In her statement, Legarda highlighted the successful passage of several key pieces of legislation, including the Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Accounting System (PENCAS) Act, the Loss and Damage Fund Board Act, and the Bacoor Assembly of 1898 Act. These laws are seen as crucial steps toward environmental sustainability and the preservation of cultural heritage.
The Senate also passed the Blue Economy bill and the Aklan Piña bill, further emphasizing the country’s commitment to ecological and cultural preservation. Legarda expressed her ongoing dedication to improving the lives of Filipinos, focusing on poverty alleviation, expanding access to education and healthcare, and job creation as essential goals for building a more inclusive and prosperous nation.
On the international front, Legarda facilitated high-profile visits, including those by former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the French Senate’s Interparliamentary Friendship Group for France-Southeast Asia. Her efforts were recognized by the French government, which honored her with the ‘Officier dans l’Ordre National de la Légion d’Honneur,’ following her earlier recognition as Chevalier of the Legion of Honor in 2016.
Legarda also celebrated the cultural achievements of the Philippines, with Filipino artists being showcased at the 60th Venice Biennale International Art Exhibition. Looking forward, she is preparing for the Philippines’ role as the Guest of Honor at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair.
In addition to her legislative and cultural efforts, Legarda has been actively involved in environmental initiatives, supporting the French Embassy’s Blue Nations Initiative and preparing the Philippines for the upcoming UN Oceans Conference in France. She has also advocated for the ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction treaty to protect ocean ecosystems.
Legarda’s commitment to disaster resilience was evident in the launch of the Sustainable Leadership Learning for Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction scholarship program. She has also been a strong advocate for gender equality, supporting initiatives like the ‘Filipina Changemakers’ documentary and forum, which highlighted the critical role of women in climate resilience.
At the International Conference for Women, Peace, and Security, Legarda emphasized the importance of gender-responsive budgeting and the role of technology in shaping future policies. As she looks to the future, Legarda called for collective action in 2025, urging Filipinos to work together for meaningful change and a better Philippines.