Loren as mother: Pillar of strength, compassion

MANILA, Philippines - She may seem tough, but in her two terms as senator, reelectionist Sen. Loren Legarda has displayed both strength and compassion, earning both the respect and love of the Filipino people.

Leandro Legarda Leviste, the youngest son of Sen. Loren, believes it is this unique mix that makes his mother special.

“As a mother, Mama has raised us, her two sons, well. Despite her busy schedule as a senator, she always finds time to be with us, she would always call us to know how we’re doing. It’s not easy being a single mother while also being a national government official, but mom does both wholeheartedly,” Leandro says.

Leandro also recalls how is mom helped in the safe release of military and police officers and journalists held captive by armed groups in separate instances, putting her safety at risk because she could not abandon her duty to help her fellowmen and contribute to peace efforts.

“The same care and attention she gives to her job, to her being a senator, she’s also like that as a mom, very caring. When we were kids she taught us school work in between and her busy schedule, and now that we’re adults, still she is very much present in our lives. Simple gestures like asking if I have taken my vitamins, or I am sleeping well. I fell sick a week ago and in the middle of the campaign, she cancelled everything for me so she could bring me to the hospital. I know deep in my heart that for my mom, it’s always been family first,” he recounted.

“She has always been a strong woman, even conquering her own fears in order to better serve others. Being true to one’s values, that’s what I’ve learned from her,” says Leandro.