Risa Hontiveros

Risa Hontiveros, a prominent Filipino politician and journalist, has been serving as a senator of the Philippines since 2016. A member of the progressive Akbayan party, she previously represented the party in the House of Representatives from two thousand four to two thousand ten. Born into a notable family, Hontiveros graduated with a degree in social sciences from Ateneo de Manila University in nineteen eighty-seven.

Her career began in journalism, where she worked for IBC and GMA Network. Hontiveros played a significant role in the formation of the Akbayan party in nineteen ninety-eight. As a representative, she became a key opposition figure against the administration of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, advocating for important legislation such as the SOGIE Equality Bill and the Reproductive Health Law.

After unsuccessful attempts to secure a Senate seat in two thousand ten and two thousand thirteen, Hontiveros was elected in two thousand sixteen. During her tenure, she championed the Mental Health Act and the Safe Streets and Public Spaces Act. Known for her vocal criticism of Rodrigo Duterte's administration, she condemned the controversial war on drugs and faced misinformation regarding her role as a PhilHealth trustee, which was later disproven.

In two thousand twenty-two, Hontiveros was reelected, becoming the only opposition senator to retain her seat. Following Vice President Leni Robredo's departure from public office, she was recognized as a leader among opposition figures. In two thousand twenty-five, she successfully managed the senatorial campaigns of Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, strengthening the opposition bloc in the Senate. Aligning with the minority bloc led by Tito Sotto, she served as deputy minority leader until Sotto's election as Senate president in September two thousand twenty-five, after which she was appointed deputy majority leader.