The Only Working Senator is a Woman—Risa

In the halls of the Philippine Senate, where power dynamics often favor the status quo, one woman continues to stand firm, relentless in her pursuit of justice and accountability. Senator Risa Hontiveros has become a beacon of integrity, taking on the toughest battles where others have remained silent. At a time when government transparency and public trust are constantly being tested, she has emerged as the lone woman in the Senate doing the hard work that many choose to ignore.

Champion of Truth and Accountability

Hontiveros has long been a champion of human rights, social justice, and good governance. But in recent months, her actions have only further proven her unwavering commitment to fighting corruption and protecting the Filipino people. When former Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo left the country amid allegations of human trafficking and illegal activities, it was Hontiveros who held the Bureau of Immigration accountable. She demanded answers, refused to accept vague justifications, and ensured that those responsible would not escape scrutiny. Her fierce questioning and push for transparency reminded the nation that no one is above the law—not even those with deep political connections.

Her commitment to rooting out corruption doesn’t end there. She has also been deeply involved in exposing and investigating Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) that have been linked to human trafficking, illicit financial transactions, and national security threats. She has consistently called for stronger government oversight on these entities, pointing out how their operations have enabled crimes such as cyber fraud, money laundering, and even physical abuse of trafficked workers.

Legislative Achievements:

1. Cheaper and Quality Medicines Act (Republic Act 9502): This law aims to reduce the cost of medicines in the country, ensuring that Filipinos have access to affordable and quality medications.​en.wikipedia.org

2. Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms (CARPER) Law (Republic Act 9700): This legislation extended and reformed the agrarian reform program, providing land to landless farmers and improving agricultural productivity.​en.wikipedia.org

3. Anti-Hospital Deposit Law (Republic Act 10932): Strengthening existing laws, this act imposes higher penalties on hospitals and clinics that demand deposits or advance payments before administering basic emergency services.​

4. Philippine Mental Health Law (Republic Act 11036): A landmark law that integrates mental health services into the Philippines’ public healthcare system, promoting mental health awareness and providing accessible mental health care.​

5. HIV and AIDS Policy Act (Republic Act 11166): This act ensures access to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support services, aiming to halt the spread of HIV and protect the rights of individuals living with HIV.​

6. Safe Streets and Public Spaces Act (Republic Act 11313): Also known as the “Bawal Bastos” law, it penalizes gender-based sexual harassment in streets, public spaces, online, workplaces, and educational institutions.​

Investigations and Advocacy:

1. Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs): Senator Hontiveros has been vocal about the issues surrounding POGOs, highlighting their links to criminal activities such as human trafficking and illegal online gambling. She has called for stronger government oversight and reforms in the Philippines’ criminal and immigration laws to address these concerns. ​facebook.com

2. Espionage Concerns: Following the arrest of a suspected Chinese spy involved in espionage activities in the Philippines, Senator Hontiveros appealed for the immediate enhancement of the country’s Anti-Espionage Law to safeguard national security. ​globalnation.inquirer.net

3. Human Trafficking and Sexual Abuse Allegations: Senator Hontiveros has been at the forefront of investigations into allegations of human trafficking and sexual abuse involving high-profile individuals, including religious leaders. Her efforts aim to bring justice to victims and hold perpetrators accountable. ​facebook.com

Awards and Recognitions:

• Golden Dove Award for Best Female Newscaster (1994): Recognized for her excellence in journalism before entering politics.​

• Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) Award for Peace Advocacy (2001): Honored for her efforts in promoting peace and social justice.​

• Nobel Peace Prize Nomination (2005): Nominated for her significant contributions to peace and social initiatives.​

• Solidar Silver Rose Award for Social Justice (2019): Awarded by European civil society organizations for her work in social justice.​zh.wikipedia.org

• APCOM Shivananda Khan Award for Extraordinary Achievement (2022): Recognized for her advocacy in promoting LGBTQ+ rights and equality.​

• PeopleAsia’s Women of Style and Substance (2022): Celebrated for her influence and contributions to society.​

• Ateneo Government Service Award (2023): Honored for her exemplary public service and dedication to governance.

Fighting for Electoral Integrity

Beyond these major corruption issues, Hontiveros has been vocal about ensuring that the upcoming elections are free from fraud. She recently called for an investigation into the Commission on Elections (Comelec) after reports surfaced that the automated election system had not secured the legally mandated certification for security and accuracy. At a time when election integrity is paramount, she remains one of the few voices fighting to ensure that democracy is not compromised.

Her stance on this matter is particularly crucial given the growing concerns of digital manipulation, electoral fraud, and foreign interference in Philippine elections. By demanding greater transparency and adherence to strict security measures, she is ensuring that the Filipino people’s votes are protected and counted fairly.

A Fierce Defender of National Security

Her work doesn’t stop there. In matters of national security, she has taken a stand against potential foreign threats, questioning intelligence agencies about the presence of suspected Chinese spies in the country. While others shy away from tackling sensitive security matters, Hontiveros has made it clear that she will always put national interest first. She has repeatedly called for stronger border controls, increased intelligence gathering, and more stringent regulations on foreign investments in key industries to prevent national security breaches.

Recently, she also exposed the growing influence of cybercrime syndicates operating within the country, many of which have links to international criminal networks. She has called for a coordinated effort between law enforcement, cybersecurity experts, and international agencies to dismantle these groups before they cause further harm to the nation’s economy and public safety.

The Lone Woman in a Male-Dominated Senate

Despite the challenges of working in a Senate largely dominated by men, she has shown time and again that resilience, intelligence, and moral conviction can break barriers. Many of her colleagues avoid taking hard stances on controversial issues, but Hontiveros has never backed down from a fight. Whether it is pushing for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ protections, or the welfare of marginalized communities, she continues to lead with courage and determination.

Her initiatives for women’s empowerment and healthcare remain a significant part of her legislative agenda. From advocating for stronger laws against gender-based violence to pushing for better healthcare access for women and children, she has consistently prioritized policies that uplift and protect those who are most vulnerable.

Redefining Public Service

If there is one thing we can learn from Senator Risa Hontiveros, it is that leadership is not about how many allies you have, but how willing you are to stand up—even if you stand alone. She is proof that one voice, when used fearlessly, can make all the difference. As the only woman in the Senate leading these crucial fights, she is not just doing the work—she is defining what true public service looks like.

While others may choose silence, she chooses to speak. While others may compromise, she remains steadfast. And while others may settle for convenience, she continues to push for change. Senator Risa Hontiveros is more than just a senator—she is the moral compass of the Philippine Senate, and she is not stopping anytime soon.