Interview with Senator Loren Legarda, The Philippines

11 Jun Interview with Senator Loren Legarda, The Philippines

Could you highlight some of your key legislative accomplishments, particularly in the areas of environmental protection, climate change mitigation and cultural preservation?

For environmental protection, I authored early in my career the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (RA 9003). Enacted in 2001, this law mandates waste segregation at the source, recycling and composting. Imagine a world today without waste segregation or recycling. Despite skepticism from more experienced colleagues, I was determined to address the growing problem of waste in our urbanized areas. I’m proud that, as a young senator, I foresaw the importance of waste management and understood its crucial role in our environment and public health.

In my second term in 2007, I authored the first climate change law in the Philippines, the Climate Change Act, which established the Climate Change Commission. This body integrates climate change adaptation and mitigation, as well as disaster risk reduction, into national and local policies. At the time, discussing climate change wasn’t popular and some doubted my chances of re-election. However, climate change directly impacts critical issues like droughts affecting rice farmers and heat waves reducing fish catches. As an archipelago, the Philippines relies heavily on both agriculture and fishing, making climate change a core issue for our livelihood. The law was enacted in 2009 but the funding mechanism, the People’s Survival Fund (PSF), was initially removed. I later refiled it as a separate bill. This fund is crucial for supporting climate adaptation measures across the country. PSF is a local adaptation fund for climate projects, managed by the Department of Finance. It supports initiatives like climate field schools, solid waste management and improving rice yields. Local governments can access these funds through approved applications under the PSF’s annual budget. I’ve authored several environmental laws including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and Renewable Energy Law.

Another key law I principally authored is the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act of 2018. ENIPAS safeguards vital terrestrial and marine areas, like the Northwest Panay Peninsula and Taal Volcano landscape, crucial for biodiversity and local livelihoods. Initially, I enacted 94 protected areas; now there are over 114.

On May 22, 2024, we secured another landmark victory for the environment when the Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System (PENCAS) Act, or Republic Act No. 11995 was signed into law. This legislation, which I principally authored and sponsored marks a significant stride in integrating environmental sustainability into the country’s economic framework.

On women’s issues, the Philippines is a significant source of trafficked persons. As a young senator, I authored the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, the first Anti Trafficking law in Southeast Asia. This law was strengthened in my second term as a Senator through the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012, which I principally sponsored.

The APEC Philippines 2015 Summit inspired the Philippine Innovation Act which I principally authored and co-sponsored. This Act, sponsored by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, supports innovation and R&D for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Key agencies involved are the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). MSMEs are the backbone of the Philippine economy, making up 99% of businesses. In 2007, I amended the SME law to include micro-enterprises. I don’t just write and enact laws; I ensure they are supported by funding in the General Appropriations Act. If an implementing agency lacks funding, I advocate for it. I also support projects that align with my legislation, such as the annual National Arts and Crafts Fair. This event brings together indigenous artisans and micro-entrepreneurs from across the country, promoting MSMEs, culture and indigenous crafts. All earnings go back to their local communities.

In 2009, I also authored the National Heritage Act. Recently, I enhanced it with the Cultural Mapping Law to better protect Philippine culture. This amendment empowers local governments to document both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, including songs, rituals, languages and culinary traditions. The Philippines is rich in culture, with over 130 languages and numerous traditions that need preservation.

Another significant piece of legislation is the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) Act, which expands and rationalizes the government’s scholarship program to ensure that Filipino students, especially those belonging to indigenous families, are fully supported throughout their studies.

What inspired your passion for cultural preservation and how do you envision the role of culture and arts in nation-building?

My dedication to advocating for culture, indigenous people and the environment is deeply rooted in the appreciation I developed for the richness and untapped potential inherent in our country. Our cultural heritage is a source of pride, reflecting the resilience and identity of the Filipino people. There is so much potential in the people waiting to be discovered and enhanced that can be harnessed for positive change.

I saw an opportunity to empower indigenous communities, the keepers of our traditional knowledge, by providing them the assistance to enhance their skills and preserve their culture and traditions that can be incorporated into broader societal progress. By focusing on culture, indigenous people and the environment, I aimed to contribute to a more sustainable, resilient and inclusive future for our country.

My passion for cultural preservation also partly stems from my upbringing, particularly the influence of my late mother who instilled in me a deep appreciation for our heritage. She cherished our culture, such as colorful, hand woven textiles, which she kept protected in a chest. This upbringing laid the foundation for my commitment to safeguarding our cultural treasures for future generations.

In the face of modern challenges and unsustainable practices, our cultural heritage is constantly evolving. It is crucial to foster a comprehensive understanding of what it means to be Filipino and to cultivate pride in our diverse cultural heritage. By doing so, we can foster a sense of patriotism and innovation rooted in our traditions.

Your efforts in strengthening bilateral relations and participating in international forums have earned you honors from various countries. How do you perceive the importance of the Philippines’ participation at these international events?

In October 2025, the Philippines will be the Guest of Honor at the Frankfurter Buchmesse, the world’s largest book fair. This achievement took years of effort, starting in 2017, to negotiate with the fair’s organizers.

We will be the second Association of SouthEast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member to receive this honor, after Indonesia in 2015. Our 2,000 square meter pavilion will showcase our books, authors, speakers and performances, highlighting the rich history and culture of the Philippines. Securing this spot required an extensive bid process, completed during the pandemic.

As a national leader, I’m proud to bring the Philippines to these significant international events, fostering opportunities for our publishers, authors, curators and artists. This global exposure complements my local initiatives, like the National Arts and Crafts Fair, where I engage directly with indigenous communities and local artisans in places like my home province of Antique. Balancing local and global projects enriches both our cultural heritage and economic opportunities. Beyondculture and books, I have been dedicated to climate action since before my election to the Senate in 1998. In 2007, the United Nations Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) designated me as their Global Champion for Resilience. Later, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Bonn named me their Global Champion for Climate Adaptation during my third term. These roles, which I perform pro bono, aim to mainstream climate action and resilience in governance, not just in the Philippines but worldwide. I collaborate with parliament members from various countries to influence climate adaptation legislation.

Do you have a final message for the millions of readers of USA Today about choosing the Philippines as their next business, tourism or investment destination?

The Philippines boasts a rich history and abundant natural resources, with a welcoming and English-proficient population. We offer numerous opportunities for sustainable development and investment, making us an attractive destination for investors, tourists and the global community.

With challenges come investment opportunities. PENCAS law, a pioneering legislation in ASEAN, exemplifies our commitment to measuring and valuing our natural capital. Through natural resource accounting, led by institutions like NEDA and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), we aim to safeguard and sustainably utilize our mountains, marine ecosystems, wetlands and forests. Understanding and valuing our natural wealth is crucial for sustainable development. By measuring and protecting it, we ensure a prosperous and resilient future for our nation.