Legarda urges prioritization of foundational learning after 18.9 million graduates found functionally illiterate

May 4, 2025

Senator Loren Legarda, Commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), urged immediate attention to strengthening learners’ foundational competencies following data showing that 18.9 million Filipinos who graduated from the country’s basic education system between 2019 and 2024 are “functionally illiterate.”

This finding was revealed during a public hearing of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, chaired by Senator and EDCOM II Co-Chairperson Sherwin Gatchalian, based on the presentation of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) regarding the preliminary results […]

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A nation’s progress must reach the workers’ table, says Legarda on Labor Day

April 30, 2025

As the nation marks Labor Day, Senator Loren Legarda emphasizes the need to ensure that the gains of national progress are felt where they matter most: on the tables of every Filipino worker, at home and abroad.

“Our workers are more than resilient. They are creative, adaptable, and relentless in their pursuit of a better life. It is through their tireless efforts that our nation stands, innovates, and grows,” said Legarda in recognizing the vital contributions of Filipino workers in the […]

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Championing roots and rights: Legarda hailed as Intellectual Property Defender

April 29, 2025

In celebration of National Intellectual Property Month, Senator Loren Legarda was honored with the Intellectual Property Champion Award during the Gawad Yamang Isip 2025 ceremonies organized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) this 25 April 2025.

Recognized for her steadfast advocacy in protecting traditional knowledge, indigenous peoples’ rights, and Filipino creativity, Legarda was hailed as a defender of intellectual property and cultural heritage.

Legarda expressed her gratitude and reaffirmed her advocacy for indigenous communities:

“This recognition is, above all, a […]

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Statement on the Tragic Attack During Lapulapu Day Celebrations in Vancouver

April 28, 2025

We are deeply saddened and concerned by the tragic event that occurred during Lapulapu Day in Vancouver. A day meant to honor Filipino heritage, culture, and the spirit of resistance against oppression was marred by a senseless act of violence that took the lives of at least 11 individuals and injured many others.

We strongly condemn this heinous attack. Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims, their families, and the entire Filipino community in British Columbia and beyond who […]

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Legarda urges protection of artisanal fishers in 15-km municipal water zones

April 25, 2025

Senator Loren Legarda called for the protection and empowerment of small-scale fishers, emphasizing the urgent need to uphold their rights, livelihoods, and the safeguarding of the country’s marine resources amid growing concerns over the possible entry of commercial fishing into the 15-km municipal water zones traditionally reserved for artisanal fishers.

“No less than the 1987 Constitution guarantees the protection of the rights of subsistence fisherfolk, especially of local communities, to the preferential use of communal marine and fishing resources,” Legarda stated. […]

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