In Christian teachings, the proverb, “When you are thrown a stone, throw back a bread,” tells us to be kind no matter the circumstances. In one of Robredo’s presidential campaigns, she invited her supporters to exercise restraint and be gentle. “It is easy to argue, but it is more radical to love,” Robredo expressed in Filipino. The former vice president also urged to find feelings and sentiments that would unite all Filipinos—not as enemies due to indifferences, but as people fighting for each other. 

Robredo exemplifies compassion, a key quality that defines a true and effective leader. Compassion is about showing sympathy toward someone sharing the same emotions with another person in distress. During the onslaught of Typhoon Kristine in November 2024, Angat Buhay provided assistance to over 50,000 Filipinos, amplifying the message of bayanihan by leveraging technology and social media and encouraging collective action for the common good. Despite the danger and her status as an ordinary citizen, Robredo waded into the water, valiantly lending her hands to the affected individuals.

Furthermore, Robredo incorporates the gospel value of justice in her leadership. Through Angat Buhay, Robredo strives for social equality and justice for all Filipinos. With or without a position in the government, Robredo courageously fights for what is right, even when she is boldly criticized by other political colors who call her names, such as “Lugaw Leni.” While Robredo’s political rivals may have assumed she would slow down her efforts to combat poverty and corruption after losing the 2022 presidential elections, the opposite occurred. She became more committed and doubled her efforts. Robredo has shown that serving others does not require a government position.

Most importantly, Robredo is a woman of integrity. During her vice presidency, her office achieved an unqualified opinion for four consecutive years, from 2018-2021, the highest audit rating given to a government agency by the Commission on Audit (COA). Although she failed to clinch the top post in the 2022 presidential elections, she won the hearts of over 15 million Filipinos hungry for accountability and transparency. She also stressed that if a candidate claims to care for a certain sector, they should be asked to show a receipt—displaying their capability and competitiveness as a servant leader.

Given her unwavering commitment to compassion, justice, and integrity, Robredo stands as a true embodiment of servant leadership, dedicated to uplifting the marginalized and advocating for the welfare of Filipinos, even in the face of widespread governmental corruption and political adversity. Robredo’s leadership is not defined by power or authority but by her persistent pursuit of meaningful change, ensuring that every citizen—especially those living on the breadline—is given the opportunity to thrive.

As the youth and future leaders, incorporating gospel values into daily lives is the key to obtaining equality for all and ensuring no Filipino is left behind.  More than a politician, Robredo is a public servant and a mother—not just to her three daughters but to every person she unconditionally supports and empowers. 

One can only be fully human if they are ready to serve others selflessly and wholeheartedly, even if all odds are against them. Through this unshakable resolve to others, authentic leadership emerges—one that transcends politics and becomes a beacon of hope for a better, more just society, becoming a leader for everyone.