Angeles City: Marking the 127th Independence Day at the historic Pamintuan Mansion in Angeles City, Pampanga, Senator Loren Legarda on Thursday rallied Filipinos to redefine freedom as a daily commitment to protect the environment, uplift education, and preserve cultural identity.

According to Philippines News Agency, Legarda emphasized the critical role of environmental conservation in achieving true freedom. She highlighted the Philippines' vulnerability to disasters and climate change, using the occasion to remind Filipinos of the importance of environmental protection. "In freedom, protection of the environment is included," Legarda stated in a news release, pointing out that every storm and flood serves as a reminder of the need to safeguard the natural world.

Legarda is known for her legislative contributions to environmental protection, having authored significant laws such as the Climate Change Act, Clean Air Act, and Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. Her efforts extend to education, where she has advocated for long-term early childhood care through the Early Childhood Care and Development System Act and supported the Senate-approved Career Progression System for Teachers. She asserted, "Quality education is not just a right, it is the foundation of our freedom."

In addition to her environmental and educational initiatives, Legarda underscored the importance of cultural heritage. She referenced her role in authoring the National Cultural Heritage Act and the Cultural Mapping Law, emphasizing that heritage is essential to identity. "It is important to look back on where we came from. Our soul is rooted in our history and culture. Our heritage is not mere ornament-it is the source of our identity," she noted.

Legarda's call to action on Independence Day aimed to inspire Filipinos to view freedom as an ongoing responsibility that encompasses environmental stewardship, educational development, and cultural preservation.