Loren Legarda re-elected Senate President Pro Tempore, vows decisive, disciplined, compassionate Senate leadership

Senator Loren Legarda was elected Senate President Pro Tempore on Monday, returning to the chamber’s second-highest post, which she previously held from July 25, 2022 until May 20, 2024, during the 19th Congress.

A four-term Senator, Legarda extensive legislative experience to the position, having chaired key committees such as Finance; Higher, Technical and Vocational Education; Foreign Relations; Environment and Natural Resources; and National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation. She led priority measures on education, climate action, women empowerment, cultural heritage, social protection, and economic resilience. She is also the first—and only—female Senate Majority Leader, a role that required managing floor deliberations, building consensus across blocs, and steering the Senate’s legislative agenda.

In accepting the post, Legarda defined the role in institutional terms, emphasizing continuity and discipline in Senate proceedings.

“The Senate President Pro Tempore helps ensure that the work of the Senate continues with order, stability, and respect for the institution,” she said.

She cited current economic conditions as requiring prompt and targeted legislative action, particularly in response to rising costs of food, transport, fuel, and electricity.

“We cannot allow delay, complacency, or inaction to stand in the way of meaningful reform. Every bill we debate and pass must deliver real and lasting benefits where public action matters most,” Legarda said.

Legarda pointed to the need for measures that directly address cost pressures and protect vulnerable sectors, including workers, farmers, fisherfolk, and small enterprises.

“Government must act so that relief reaches those who need it, prices are addressed with urgency, and policies protect not only the poorest, but also workers, farmers, fisherfolk, drivers, small businesses, and ordinary families,” she added.

Legarda also underscored the importance of coordination within the chamber, committing to support the Senate leadership and work with both Majority and Minority members to maintain continuity in legislative work.

“As Senate President Pro Tempore, I offer my full support to the Senate President, to the Majority and Minority, and to every member of this chamber. Let us communicate openly, combine our collective wisdom, and protect the integrity of this institution,” she said.

Her election places a senior legislator with prior experience in the same post at the Senate’s second-highest position, a role central to presiding over sessions, maintaining order in proceedings, and ensuring the timely consideration of legislative measures. (30)