In recognition of her contributions to the nation and public service, Senator Loren Legarda was awarded an Honoris Causa, Doctor of Humanities, by the University of Antique (UA) during the university’s commencement exercises last Saturday.

Speaking to the 262 graduates, Legarda expressed her appreciation to the university, calling it one of the highest honors bestowed upon her as a proud daughter of Antique. She emphasized the recognition as a reflection of her ancestral legacy 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.

Legarda urged the graduating class to continue transforming lives and building resilient communities as they move beyond the university. She emphasized the strength and qualities that distinguish Antiqueños—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 sacrifices 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 said.

She 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 remain undeterred by hardships.”

Legarda reaffirmed her commitment to continue supporting UA through legislation and programs aimed at empowering not only the youth but the entire education system in the province. She has supported students from Antique through scholarships and free tuition under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, which she co-authored and co-sponsored. She has also advocated for the establishment of various facilities at the university to aid student learning.

Since 2017, Legarda has provided funding for infrastructure projects at UA, including classrooms, laboratories, sports facilities, and training centers.

“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 said.

The senator also reminded the graduates of the values of excellence, compassion, and resilience. She pledged to remain a steadfast partner to the province in cultivating leaders who will shape the future of Antique and the nation.

“Be leaders who serve with integrity and compassion. Build not just careers, but legacies,” she concluded.