Trinidad adopts Legarda

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Senator Loren Legarda is now officially an adopted daughter of the La Trinidad, after both the legislative and executive branches of government here approved a resolution approving the move.

Legarda thanked the officials of the Valley for making her an “honorary Ibaloi” saying to become a Cordilleran has been a lifetime dream “I have long advocated for the culture, tradition and welfare of the region.”

Legarda graced the staging of the 13th annual Strawberry Festival as guest of honor and speaker in Monday’s program kicking off the grand street dancing parade.

Legarda was given traditional Cordilleran attire which she immediately wore during the morning program set at the municipal gym.

The official resolution said: “Senator Legarda is widely known and recognized to be a prime public servant and top caliber journalist of three decades, foremost champion and advocate of green development, women and children’s right and Indigenous People’s rights.”

Legarda said the plight of various indigenous groups as well as local culture has been on top of her agenda since she has been a journalist and more so when she became a senator pegging her priorities with nature and culture.

Local officials said: “In recognition of her central role in advancing the causes of the environment and Indigenous Peoples, peace and stability through noteworthy laws and measures and for her generous service as Guest of Honor and Speaker during the Strawberry Festival.”

Legrada is the first recipient of an adoption on the Valley, with her now bearing the tag “Adopted Daughter” of La Trinidad.