Senator Loren Legarda recognized the resilience and innovation of women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) during the Legarda MSME Excellence Awards 2025 held at the University of the Philippines Visayas Extension Campus. The event celebrated women’s contributions to local economies, sustainable livelihoods, and community empowerment.
In her speech, Legarda highlighted the critical support she has championed for women entrepreneurs, especially in the weaving and textile industries.
"Sa simula pa man ay ipinaglaban ko, kasama ang aking bugto na si Cong. AA Legarda, ang sapat na suporta para rito—mula sa pagbibigay ng mga kagamitan hanggang sa pagtatayo ng mga Weaving and Processing Center, Natural Dye Center, Brick and Clay Facilities, Bamboo Processing Facilities, at marami pang iba," she said.
A staunch advocate for the revival of traditional crafts, Legarda has played a pivotal role in supporting women loom weavers in Bugasong and San Remigio. Her initiatives include the establishment of Natural Dye and Weaving Centers in partnership with the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI), ensuring the preservation and development of local textile traditions.
Further efforts to empower local artisans include the creation of weaving centers in towns like Patnongon, Bagtason, and Sto. Rosario, along with the establishment of a Cotton Processing Center in Patnongon to ensure a steady supply of raw materials for weavers.
Legarda has also backed microenterprises in the region through funding and equipment provided by the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) Shared Services Facility, enabling local businesses to expand and reach new markets.
Her support has helped Antiqueño products gain recognition at prestigious trade fairs, such as the National Arts and Crafts Fair, Manila FAME, and the Ambiente Fair in Frankfurt, Germany.
The event also honored outstanding women entrepreneurs and cooperatives from northern Antique. Awardees included Sto. Rosario Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Alegre Nito Weavers Association, Libertad Bariw Weavers Federation, and several individual entrepreneurs, such as Pamela Q. Alvarez and Gigi Bautista.
Meanwhile, Congressman AA Legarda presented awards to entrepreneurs from the southern part of the province. Awardees included Elma T. Peña for livestock production, Myrna Labuson for mushroom production, and Luzviminda E. Clarinal for weaving and handicrafts, among others.
The awards ceremony, held as part of National Women’s Month, celebrated the role of Antiqueña women in fostering economic growth, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting sustainable development.
Legarda also underscored that economic empowerment extends beyond financial support.
"True economic empowerment goes beyond livelihoods—it must also encompass access to quality healthcare, education, and sports development," she stated. Her initiatives have included upgrading hospital facilities, expanding scholarship programs, and supporting women in sports, such as backing Ms. Marian Capadoccia, the first all-Filipina champion of the Asia Pacific Padel Tour Grand Slam in Singapore.
The senator’s commitment to public service is reflected in laws she has sponsored, including the Magna Carta for MSMEs, the Barangay Livelihood and Skills Training Act, and the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Act.