Senator Loren Legarda voiced her strong support for the Iglesia Filipina Independiente’s (IFI) mission to foster faith, unity, and social justice during the fourth installation ceremony of Rev. Father Leon Estrella as the new IFI Bishop of Antique. The event took place at St. Jude Cathedral in Sibalom on January 6, 2025. Legarda, a native of Antique, expressed her deep connection to her hometown and the IFI, emphasizing the significance of the moment.
In her speech, Legarda highlighted her family’s historical ties to the IFI and their contributions to the development of Antique. She honored her ancestors Pedro and Baltazara Gella for their governance and leadership, and Ariston Gella for his role as a delegate to the 1898 Malolos Congress. Additionally, she paid tribute to Vicente Gella, who established Colegio de San Vicente Ferrer, underscoring the transformative power of education.
Legarda reminisced about her collaboration with the late Bishop Maximo Tomas Millamena on initiatives aimed at peace and social reform. She stressed the crucial role of faith leaders in tackling societal challenges, particularly in promoting peace, justice, and community well-being. She stated, “Our work is about building communities — to serve the least, the last, and the lost. These acts of service were expressions of faith, anchored in the truth that every life holds immeasurable worth.”
Committing to ongoing support, Legarda pledged to work alongside Bishop Estrella on initiatives to combat poverty, hunger, and inequality in Antique. She concluded her address by affirming, “Together, we continue the work for Antique, with faith guiding our way.”