MANILA, (PIA) — Senator Loren Legarda has been conferred the prestigious title of Officier dans l’Ordre National de la Légion d’Honneur by the French government.
The honor was presented by French Ambassador Marie Fontanel during a ceremony recognizing Legarda’s contributions to strengthening Philippine-French relations, particularly in cultural diplomacy and climate action.
“Tonight, I am filled with gratitude and humility,” said Legarda. “This award is more than a recognition of past efforts; it is a call to action—a reminder that our partnership knows no bounds and will persist in the face of shared global challenges.”
Legarda was first honored as a Chevalier in the same order eight years ago, marking her efforts in fostering stronger cultural and diplomatic ties between the Philippines and France. Her recent elevation to Officier signifies continued commitment and deepened collaboration.
Over the years, Legarda has championed various initiatives, including the establishment of the Philippine Studies Program at Sciences Po and the 2013 exhibit of Philippine indigenous art at the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris.
These projects, she said, embody the importance of cultural diplomacy as “the Philippines’ fourth pillar of foreign policy.”
However, Legarda emphasized that the most urgent area of cooperation between the two nations is in climate action.
She highlighted the Manila Call to Action for Climate Change, which was adopted in 2015, as a turning point in Philippine-French cooperation on environmental issues.
“The Philippines and France are true climate allies, bound by a common purpose and a shared responsibility to protect our planet,” she noted.
As a UNDRR Global Champion for Resilience and a key advocate of the Paris Agreement, Legarda has continued to lead climate efforts in the Philippines.
She also lauded recent efforts, such as the Blue Nations initiative launched in June 2024, aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation on maritime and climate issues in the lead-up to the 2025 UN Oceans Conference.
Legarda reiterated her commitment to the ongoing partnership, vowing to further strengthen cultural, diplomatic, and strategic ties between the two nations.
“Once again, I am deeply honored by this recognition,” she said. “As an Officier, I am committed to continuously expanding areas of cooperation between the Philippines and France, especially in climate action, cultural diplomacy, and sustainable development.”
The Legion of Honor is one of France’s highest distinctions, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation or to the causes it champions globally. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
