The student council of Assumption College San Lorenzo has successfully petitioned for the removal of Senator Loren Legarda’s portrait from the institution’s Wall of Empowered Women. A video shared on Facebook shows staff removing the image following a surge of criticism regarding the senator’s recent political decisions.
The Assumption Student Council (ASC) issued a statement on Friday, May 15, asserting that recognition within the school must be based on more than just achievement. The council stated that the Wall of Empowered Women is intended for leaders who embody “truth, justice, and public accountability.”
The ASC urged Senator Legarda to “reflect on the principles she once upheld as a student and as a public figure,” citing a need for character, responsibility, and moral courage in leadership.
Political Maneuvering at the Senate
The backlash stems from Legarda’s role in a recent leadership change within the Senate. She was one of 13 senators who voted for Alan Peter Cayetano as Senate president.
This vote occurred on the same day the House of Representatives impeached Vice President Sara Duterte. The leadership shift, which saw the reappearance of Senator Bato dela Rosa, is widely viewed as being linked to the impeachment proceedings.
Widespread Institutional Criticism
The criticism extends beyond the student council. The Assumption Board of Trustees released a “call to conscience” on Friday, addressed to all alumnae and those in public service.
While the board did not name Legarda specifically, they called on alumnae in public office to “return to the women they were formed to be,” emphasizing values over political parties or positions.
Similarly, the UP Broadcasting Association at the University of the Philippines Diliman challenged Legarda on May 12. The group stated that her political choices now “stand in contradiction” with the principles of democratic responsibility and accountability taught at UP.
A Legacy of Public Service
Legarda has long been viewed as a distinguished figure by her former schools. She completed her elementary and high school education at Assumption and later became a notable alumna of UP.
Before entering politics, Legarda worked as a journalist and later gained recognition for her advocacy in climate action and environmental causes. In 2013, UP hailed her as a distinguished alumna for her work in climate change adaptation.
During a 2018 commencement speech at UP, Legarda told students that her work in the Senate was a “demonstration against the abuses and inequities that have destroyed our world.”
Potential Implications
The removal of the portrait may signal a shift in how the institution manages its public associations with political figures. This could lead to a more rigorous review of the criteria used for the Wall of Empowered Women.
the public pressure from both Assumption and UP may prompt a response from the senator or influence how subsequent political maneuvers in the Senate are perceived by the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Senator Loren Legarda’s portrait removed from the Wall of Empowered Women?
The Assumption Student Council petitioned for the removal because they believe her recent political actions, specifically her vote for Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, no longer reflect the values of truth, justice, and public accountability upheld by the school.
What was the context of the Senate leadership change?
Senator Legarda was among 13 senators who voted for Alan Peter Cayetano as Senate president on the same day the House of Representatives impeached Vice President Sara Duterte.
Did other institutions express similar concerns?
Yes, the UP Broadcasting Association at UP Diliman issued a statement on May 12, claiming Legarda’s political choices contradict the principles of public service and accountability taught at the university.
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