MANILA — Senator Loren Legarda called on the graduating class of New Era University to dedicate their lives to serving the Filipino people, guided by the virtues of faith, hope, and love.

Speaking before thousands of graduates during NEU’s golden anniversary commencement exercises held at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan, Legarda underscored the enduring values that the university has upheld for 50 years.

“Today is, in itself, a powerful reflection of faith,” Legarda said. “Faith is more than belief; it is action. It is the strength to give ourselves fully in the service of others.”

She urged the graduates to find grounding in their beliefs amid a world that often prioritizes appearances over integrity.

“In a world that often rewards optics over virtue, your faith grounds you in something far deeper… It offers the peace of having done what is right—not for recognition, but because it was just,” she added.

Legarda also emphasized the importance of self-love as the cornerstone of true service to others.

“To love yourself is to honor that trust, to use your life in service of something greater,” she explained. “Only then… can your love for others become deep, generous, and whole,” she said.

Turning to the theme of hope, the veteran lawmaker described it not merely as optimism but as a discipline rooted in action and conviction.

She shared how hope guided her through her public service journey, especially in championing causes that were once unpopular.

“What allowed me to keep going—even when the road was lonely—was hope,” Legarda said, citing her pioneering efforts in environmental and cultural legislation.

As she closed her address, Legarda challenged the graduates to stand firm for every Filipino, affirming their right to dignity, quality education, human rights, and healthcare.

“In the end, hope is not about believing that things will improve, but knowing that God has already placed within you the strength to make them better,” she said.