Legarda receives honorary PhD; reminds UA students to be stewards of resiliency, inclusive transformation

San Jose, Antique- In recognition of her invaluable contributions to the nation and inclusive public service to the Filipino people, Senator Loren Legarda received an Honoris Causa, Doctor of Humanities from the University of Antique (UA) as she graced the university’s commencement exercises on January 11, 2025.

Speaking before the 262 graduates of UA, Legarda conveyed her deepest appreciation to the University, for what she considers one of the highest honors bestowed upon her as a proud daughter of the Province of Antique. She underscored the distinction as a remarkable moment and noted that this is a clear reflection of the legacy passed on by her ancestors in the province.

“To be recognized here, among my fellow Antiqueños, is an honor that fills me with joy and gratitude. This recognition is more than just a personal milestone, I receive this today in honor of all who call Antique home, carrying with me the faith and determination that together we can continue to create a legacy worthy of our heritage,” she said.

During her speech, the four-term senator encouraged the graduating class of UA to continue upholding the true meaning of transforming lives and building resilient communities as they exit the halls of the esteemed university. She reminded them of the true spirit and qualities that make Antiqueños different — unyielding, hopeful, and determined.

“Resilience is not just surviving calamities — it is about thriving despite them. I have witnessed the strength of our kasimanwa in the face of typhoons, floods, and earthquakes. But resilience is also the courage of a mother who sacrifice her own needs so her children can finish school. It is the persistence of a father who tills the land from dawn to dusk, weathering storms and droughts, determined to secure a better future for his family,” she stressed.

Legarda added, “It is the spirit of a student who treks great distances to learn, or of another who juggles work with study, or of those who confront various personal struggles, yet remained undettered by hardships.” She reaffirmed her commitment to consistently support the UA through various legislation and programs that would empower, not just the youth, but the entire education system in the province.

For years, Legarda supported students from Antique through scholarships and free tuition fees through the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, which she co-authored and co-sponsored. She also pushed for the establishement of various facilities in the university that will assist students’ with their learnings.

Since 2017, Legarda was able to provide various assistance to the UA through fundings of infrastructure projects such as the construction of classrooms, laboratories, oval facilities, and sports training centers, among many others.

“But sustainability is more than just infrastructure, it is about empowering you — the youth — to become stewards of our land and leaders of tomorrow. As you leave the halls of the University of Antique, remember this: your education is a responsibility — a call to serve, to uplift, and to transform. Return to your communities with purpose. Be teachers who inspire the next generation” Legarda highlighted. Likewise, the senator reminded the graduates of the values of excellence, compassion and resilience as she remains a steadfast partner of the Province in cultivating leaders that will shape the future of Antique and the entire nation. “Be leaders who serve with integrity and compassion. Build not just careers but legacies,” Legarda reiterated.