BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

When discussing a woman who embodies empowerment, Senator Risa Hontiveros is a name that frequently arises.

Based on her biography seen in the 19th congress website, Senator Hontiveros is renowned as a staunch advocate for health and women’s rights, a committed activist, and a dedicated supporter of marginalized communities. She holds the distinction of being the first socialist woman Senator in the Philippines.

Recognized for her unwavering efforts to advance public health, gender equality, and the well-being of disadvantaged sectors, Senator Hontiveros has earned numerous accolades throughout her career. Prior to her Senate tenure, she served as a representative for the Akbayan Partylist from 2004 to 2010. Since her initial election to the Senate in 2016, she has been re-elected by voters to continue her impactful legislative work.

Senator Hontiveros has spearheaded the passage of 25 significant laws, including groundbreaking measures such as the Expanded Maternity Leave Law (RA 11210), which grants working mothers 105 days of paid maternity leave, and the Mental Health Law (RA 11036), establishing a crucial legal framework for mental health care in the Philippines.

In her capacity as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, Hontiveros has effectively advocated for the enactment of key legislation. This includes the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act (RA 11861), which broadens social benefits for solo parents, the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), aimed at safeguarding Filipinos, particularly women, from gender-based harassment in public areas, and the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children Law (RA 11930), which strengthens government initiatives to combat online abuse and exploitation of Filipino minors.

She is presently endeavoring to enact reforms such as the proposed Lingap Para Kay Lolo at Lola Act, which seeks to establish a universal social pension system for elderly Filipinos, and the Free Dialysis Act, which mandates PhilHealth to provide free dialysis sessions for all senior citizens.

Beyond her legislative accomplishments, Hontiveros is esteemed as a watchdog for her pivotal role in Senate inquiries that uncover corruption and misconduct in government. Notably, she spearheaded the Senate investigation into the “pastillas” scam involving Bureau of Immigration personnel, resulting in the filing of criminal and administrative charges against numerous implicated officers.

Moreover, she is acknowledged for her efforts as a peace advocate, having earned a nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005 for her contributions to the peace movement in the Philippines.

In addition to her duties within and beyond the Senate, Senator Hontiveros is a devoted and actively involved single mother to her four children: Kiko, Ianna, Issa, and Sinta. Hontiveros faced challenges following her victory in the 2022 elections, as she became the most prominent opposition figure to be elected under the Marcos administration.

Her relentless determination persisted into 2023, when Hontiveros stood alone in the Senate, casting the sole dissenting vote against the bill to create the contentious Maharlika Investment Fund—a measure notably backed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo Photo: Facebook/Sen. Risa Hontiveros