SEN. Loren Legarda was bestowed with the title of "Officier dans l'Ordre National de la Légion d'Honneur" by the French government on Thursday. The French Ambassador Marie Fontanel bestowed the title during a ceremony held at the ambassador's residence. The recognition builds upon Legarda's previous honor as a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor 2016, underscoring her significant contributions to strengthening Philippine-French relations, cultural diplomacy and climate action. In her acceptance speech, Legarda expressed deep gratitude and humility, emphasizing that the award was a call to action, not just a recognition of her past efforts. Legarda also reflected on the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations. "I always consider cultural diplomacy as the Philippines' fourth pillar of foreign policy, a key that opens doors to political and economic initiatives," she said. Among her notable contributions in this field is her support for establishing the Philippine Studies Program at Sciences Po and the 2013 Philippine exhibit at the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris. Beyond cultural diplomacy, Legarda highlighted the enduring partnership between the Philippines and France, underscored by shared values and a solid commitment to addressing global challenges such as climate change. She recalled critical milestones in this collaboration, including the 2015 Manila Call to Action for Climate Change and her sponsorship of the Paris Agreement in the Philippine Senate in 2017. The four-term senator also noted her support for the Philippines' participation in the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, an international effort to protect at least 30 percent of the world's land and oceans by 2030. The two countries further bolstered their cooperation on maritime and climate issues through the "Blue Nations" initiative ahead of the 2025 UN Oceans Conference in Nice. The senator supports the high-level conference to advance Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development. As a UNDRR Global Champion for Resilience, Legarda reaffirmed her dedication to climate resilience and sustainability, deepening the Philippines' partnership with France. "The Philippines and France are true climate allies bound by a common purpose and a shared responsibility to protect our planet," she said. The Ordre National de la Légion d'Honneur is awarded for outstanding service to the nation. Legarda's conferment as officier reflects her tireless efforts in advancing environmental sustainability, cultural exchange, and diplomatic relations between the Philippines and France.