SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA

Patroness of the Arts

There are many who remember Senator Loren Legarda as a fearless, hard-hitting journalist who, in her time as one of the anchors for ABS- CBN News and Public Affairs, opened the nation’s eyes to critical issues through her award-winning telemagazine show The Inside Story. Over the years, she has successfully transitioned from the journalistic field to the political arena where she has bravely taken up the cudgels for the nation’s indigenous communities and continues to raise public awareness regarding critical political issues.

Today, however, Legarda is best known as a true advocate for Philippine art and culture. Her advocacies now range from the use of indigenous fabrics to spearheading the return of Filipino artists to one of the most renowned and respected exhibitions in the world, La Biennale di

Venezia. In doing so, the world is now more aware that the Philippines is a force to be reckoned with in terms of creativity and innovation. The work of Filipino artists is now sought after by highly discriminating collectors and museums across the globe.

In recognition of her passionate drive to bring the Philippines to the fore of the global art scene, the Italian government recently awarded her the title of Cavaliere dell’Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiano.

It is, thus, but fitting that the indigenous people of the Cordillera Region have given her the name Tukwifi or “bright star” as she has enabled the talents of a nation to shine brightly throughout the world. Senator Legarda also received an Hermès Chrono Quartz watch with her award.