Atty. Fatima Lipp D. Panontongan began her legal career at just 24, inspired by her parents—a trial judge mother and a retired PNP General father. With over 21 years in government service, she has spent two decades as chief of staff to two senators, building a reputation as a dedicated public servant and skilled legal professional.

Her career includes 12 years in the Office of Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago, advancing from junior lawyer to chief of staff. She was instrumental in updating Senator Santiago’s law books, covering key areas like the Rules of Court, Civil Code, Penal Code, Local Government Code, Election Code, Constitutional Law, and International Law.

In addition to her work with Senator Santiago, Atty. Panontongan spent eight years with Senator Sonny Angara, contributing to landmark legislation such as the Higher Take Home Pay Law, Student Fare Discount Law, Covid-19 Response and Vax Laws, Health Workers’ Benefits Law, Marawi Compensation Law, the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act, New Government Procurement Act, and several appropriations laws.

She also pursued further education, earning a top-ranking Diploma in Industrial Relations from UP Diliman and completing a course in international human rights at the International Institute of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France. In 2022, she graduated as the top student in the Philippine Air Force’s Basic Citizens Military Training, earning Leadership and Academic Excellence Awards, and was awarded the Military Civic Action Medal for her community service two years in a row.

In November 2024, she received the Outstanding Thomasian Alumni Award of Distinction from the UST Faculty of Civil Law Alumni Foundation, Inc., honoring her significant contributions to public service and law.

She recently completed a senior-level executive course on economic development, as well as a public policy and governance course under a scholarship at the Harvard Kennedy School.