Maria Leonor Gerona Robredo began her tenure as the 18th mayor of Naga City in 2025, marking a return to local executive leadership following an extensive national career. A lawyer by training and a consistent figure in Philippine governance, she previously served as the 14th vice president of the Philippines, bridging legislative and executive roles over several decades.
Formative Legal and Advocacy Work
Born on April 23, 1965, in Naga, Robredo pursued degrees at the University of the Philippines Diliman and the University of Nueva Caceres. After passing the bar exam in 1996, she began her legal career with the Public Attorney's Office. Between 1998 and 2008, she served as a coordinator for the Naga-based legal support group SALIGAN, focusing on providing legal services to rural populations and advocating for marginalized communities. This period of her career also saw her founding the Lakas ng Kababaihan ng Naga Federation in 1989, an initiative designed to foster economic opportunities for women.
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In 2013, Robredo entered the national legislature as the representative for Camarines Sur’s third district. During her three-year term, she held vice-chairmanship roles in committees concerning public accountability and good governance. Her legislative focus prioritized institutional transparency, notably drafting the Full Disclosure Policy Bill. Additionally, she championed the Open Door Policy Act to remove discriminatory dress codes in government buildings and sponsored the People Empowerment Bill to broaden public participation in policy-making.
Vice Presidency and Policy Initiatives
Elected as vice president in 2016, Robredo served alongside President Rodrigo Duterte. Her office spearheaded the Angat Buhay program, a poverty-alleviation initiative that partnered with over 300 organizations to deliver education, healthcare, and rural development services. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she managed operational responses including telehealth services and medical supply distribution. Throughout her term, she served as the primary opposition leader, frequently critiquing the administration’s policies on drug enforcement and public health management.
Professional Recognition
Robredo’s administrative oversight earned international notice, including recognition from the Thai government for her work in gender equality. Under her direction, the Office of the Vice President attained ISO 9001:2015 certification for its quality management systems. Furthermore, she was twice named as one of Asia's Most Influential figures in the Philippines, receiving this designation in both 2021 and 2022.
Fast facts
- Born: 23 April 1965, Naga, Philippines
- Education: University of the Philippines Diliman, University of Nueva Caceres
- Vice President of the Philippines: 2016–2022
- Member of the House of Representatives: 2013–2016
- Mayor of Naga City: 2025–present
- Religious Affiliation: Catholic Church
- Languages: Central Bikol, Filipino
Questions readers ask
What was the focus of her legislative agenda?
Her primary goals included increasing government transparency, promoting participatory budgeting, and removing barriers to public service access for marginalized sectors.
What is the Angat Buhay program?
It is a poverty-alleviation flagship program established during her vice presidency that coordinates partnerships with hundreds of organizations to improve healthcare, education, and rural development.
