Senator Loren Legarda received an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree, Honoris Causa, from the University of Antique (UA) during its commencement exercises on January 11, 2025, in recognition of her contributions to the nation and her inclusive public service.
Addressing the 262 UA graduates, Legarda expressed gratitude for the honor, which she described as one of her proudest moments as a daughter of Antique. She said the recognition reflected the legacy passed down by her ancestors in the province.
“To be recognized here, among my fellow Antiqueños, is an honor that fills me with joy and gratitude,” she said.
“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.”
In her speech, the four-term senator urged graduates to embrace resilience and inclusivity as they move forward in life. She highlighted the unique qualities of Antiqueños — unyielding, hopeful, and determined — and emphasized the importance of these values.
“Resilience is not just surviving calamities — it is about thriving despite them,” she said.
Legarda shared examples of resilience, citing the perseverance of parents who make sacrifices for their children’s education and students who overcome personal struggles to pursue learning.
“It is the spirit of a student who treks great distances to learn, or of another who juggles work and study, or of those who confront various personal struggles yet remain undeterred by hardships,” she said.
She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting UA and the province of Antique through legislation and programs aimed at strengthening the education system. She noted her contributions to scholarships, free tuition under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, and the establishment of learning facilities.
Since 2017, Legarda has facilitated funding for infrastructure projects at UA, including classrooms, laboratories, sports training centers, and oval facilities.
“But sustainability is more than just infrastructure; it is about empowering you — the youth — to become stewards of our land and leaders of tomorrow,” she said.
Legarda encouraged the graduates to use their education as a tool for service and transformation.
“Return to your communities with purpose. Be teachers who inspire the next generation. Be leaders who serve with integrity and compassion. Build not just careers but legacies,” she stressed.
She reiterated her support for the values of excellence, compassion, and resilience, and her commitment to fostering future leaders for Antique and the nation.
“Be leaders who serve with integrity and compassion. Build not just careers but legacies,” she said.
