Senator Loren Legarda Chairs Senate Committee on Culture
MANILA, Philippines — Four-term Senator Loren Legarda has been appointed Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Culture and the Arts for the 20th Congress. This role highlights her enduring dedication to cultural preservation and strengthening the Filipino national identity.
“I am honored by the trust of my colleagues and the Senate as an institution in choosing me to lead this important Committee. Through this Chairmanship, I am committed to deepening the understanding that our shared history, culture, and traditions, both tangible and intangible, are more than just markers of our identity. Arts and culture generate potential opportunities for development deserving of our utmost respect, protection, and promotion,” Legarda said.
A Champion for Philippine Arts and Culture
Legarda has long been a steadfast advocate for Philippine culture, consistently leading efforts that showcase Filipino creativity worldwide. Notably, she spearheaded the country’s return to the Venice Biennale, the world’s premier contemporary art exhibition, after more than five decades. Likewise, she played a key role in securing the Philippines’ historic position as the Guest of Honour at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair, the biggest book trade event globally.
“Too often, culture and the arts are overlooked, perceived as beautiful and meaningful, but disconnected from the realities of daily life and economic survival. This is the misconception I am determined to redefine. Culture and the arts create livelihoods, businesses, and uplift local communities. They are threads that weave our national narrative and inspire creative innovation, building our nation toward inclusive and sustainable growth,” Legarda emphasized.
Legislation and Honors Supporting Culture
Senator Legarda authored and co-sponsored significant laws that protect and promote the nation’s heritage. Among these is Republic Act No. 10066, the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, which safeguards the country’s cultural treasures. She also authored RA 10908, the Integrated History Act of 2016, mandating the inclusion of Filipino-Muslim and Indigenous Peoples’ history and culture in education. Furthermore, she championed RA 11961, which enhances heritage conservation through cultural mapping and education programs.
Her unwavering leadership earned her the Dangal ng Haraya – Patron of Arts and Culture Award from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).
Recognized by Indigenous Communities
Legarda’s advocacy for Indigenous Peoples’ rights and welfare has been widely honored. Various groups bestowed upon her titles such as Bai a Labi from the Marawi Sultanate; Tukwifi, meaning ‘bright star,’ by the Cordillera Indigenous Elected Women’s Leaders League; Cuyong Adlaw Dulpa-an Labaw sa Kadunggan, or ‘shining sun rising in power,’ by the Panay Bukidnon; and Bae Matumpis, meaning ‘the one who takes care,’ from Mindanao’s cultural communities.
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