Duterte counts on San Beda grads to contribute to PH progress

Duterte congratulated the graduates for reaching the remarkable milestone in their academic journey as he graced their commencement exercises at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. (PNA photo)

MANILA — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Tuesday, May 29, encouraged the new graduates of San Beda University (SBU) to join the shared task of protecting the welfare of marginalized Filipinos.

Duterte congratulated the graduates for reaching the remarkable milestone in their academic journey as he graced their commencement exercises at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.

He said the graduates have done a great job in channeling their passions into endeavors that enrich their respective vocations.

“May they continue to contribute to our nation’s progress as they join our country’s workforce and become productive members of society,” he said in his speech.

“As the university marks another chapter in its long history, I trust that you will become more [invigorated] to demonstrate the Benedictine principles that have guided you and us — kami — in your respective pursuits,” he added.

Duterte, who is also an alumnus of San Beda, called on the graduates to serve as examples of servant-leadership among their peers and let their enthusiasm and humility propel them towards further success as they build their respective careers.

He also expressed confidence that with the graduates’ determination to cultivate their talents and skills, they can contribute further to the betterment of their respective communities and industries.

“As one Bedan community, let us work together in forging a stronger citizenry who proactively responds to the call of service for our country and people,” Duterte said.

“As you leave the halls of your alma mater, I ask you to join me in our shared task of uplifting the well-being of our people and looking after the welfare of the poor and the marginalized,” he added.

He also lauded San Beda for the successful culmination of its first batch of graduates as a university.

“This accomplishment serves not only as a testament to the school’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, but also as an inspiration to contribute further [to] the long-term progress of higher education in the country,” he said.

“Let this milestone remind us of the indispensable role of education in charting the course of our youth’s future [and] in harnessing their potential to become outstanding individuals,” he added.

Earlier this month, the President witnessed the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)’s turn over of the Certificate of University status to San Beda University in a ceremony in Malacañan.

After his speech, the President proceeded to the Heroes Room of the PICC and received Korean National Police Agency (KNPA) Commissioner General Lee Chul-Sung and other KNPA officials in a courtesy call.

During the meeting, the President was accompanied by Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Oscar Albayalde and Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go.