De Lima recognized as Foreign Policy Global Thinker 2016 — for standing up to Duterte

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Foreign Policy, an American magazine that focuses on foreign affairs, named Sen. Leila De Lima as one of its 100 Global Thinkers for 2016 for "standing up to an extremist leader."

The magazine said the people in the list "demonstrated how private citizens can ease the suffering of others" and are "reminders that humanity has the power to hold leaders to account, to defy corrupt regimes, and to provide one another opportunity and solace when states cannot."

De Lima received the citation for being "a steadfast advocate for the rule of law" in light of alleged extra-legal killlings throughout President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs, something the President has repeatedly denied.

The magazine also noted De Lima's vocal opposition despite a battery of criticism from Duterte and his allies.

Read: Group wants De Lima disbarred

"I am perhaps most well-known today for having invited upon myself the vendetta of the current President, Rodrigo Duterte," she said Tuesday in her acceptance speech in Washington D.C.

De Lima is being accused of taking drug money to fund her 2016 senatorial campaign.

Read: Witness: We were forced to sell drugs to fund De Lima campaign

She has repeatedly denied the charges.

Read: De Lima willing to be shot if drug links proven

"As the most outspoken critic of President Duterte, I am probably the most controversial and the most maligned or demonized public figure in our country today," De Lima said. "But I shall keep fighting the good fight."

De Lima joins Bataan Rep. Geraldine Roman in the "Challengers" subcategory of the list. Roman was recognized for being the country's first openly transgender politician.

Read: Bataan Rep. Geraldine Roman receives int'l award for redefining governance