Marcos to PLM graduates: Use your education to help build a stronger Philippines

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday urged graduates of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) to use the knowledge they gained in school not only for their own success but also to uplift others and contribute to the country’s progress.

Speaking at PLM’s 58th Commencement Exercises at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, Marcos reminded the graduates that the value of education goes beyond earning a diploma or certificate.

“May your learning be guided by wisdom, your success measured by the lives that you uplift, and your achievements dedicated to the progress of our nation,” he said.

He noted that completing higher education or training represents more than an academic credential.

According to the President, such an achievement gives a person a fairer chance to succeed, brings a family closer to a better future, and equips workers with knowledge and skills that can open greater opportunities.

“Ito ang tunay na bunga ng edukasyon – mas abot-kamay, de-kalidad, at nagbibigay sa bawat Pilipino ng pagkakataong makamit ang mas magandang kinabukasan,” he said.

(This is the true fruit of education—education that is more accessible, quality, and gives every Filipino the opportunity to achieve a better future.)

Marcos also encouraged the graduates to remain guided by the values of PLM wherever their careers and lives take them.

“Wherever life takes you, remain true to the ideals of this university. Use what you have learned to help build a stronger, more prosperous, and more compassionate Philippines,” he said.

Marcos’ message echoed the theme of PLM’s 58th commencement exercises, “Mga Makabagong Pantas Taglay ang Karunungan Tungo sa Kadakilaan at Kaunlaran” (Modern scholars armed with knowledge toward greatness and progress).

He said the theme captures the purpose of education: to transform knowledge into wisdom, and wisdom into excellence, progress, and service.

Expanding access to education

Marcos also highlighted his administration’s efforts to expand access to higher education and government financial assistance.

He said the government’s Free Higher Education program now benefits 2.62 million students, while scholarship and financial assistance programs such as the Tertiary Education Subsidy and Tulong Dunong continue.

He added that the government is strengthening technical-vocational education and training through CHED and TESDA, giving young Filipinos options beyond a traditional college degree.

He stressed that access to education should mean more than simply entering university—it should also include providing students with the support they need to complete their education and realize the opportunities that a college degree can bring.

Marcos received the highest honorary degree conferred by the PLM—Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa—during the commencement exercises.

“Today, I stand before you, humbled as the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila confers upon me the degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa—its highest honorary degree,” he said.

“I receive this honor with gratitude, mindful of the responsibility that comes with it,” he added.

Marcos said the recognition affirms a principle shared by his administration and PLM: that education should remain a pathway to opportunity, a catalyst for progress, and a cornerstone of nation-building.

First Lady’s PLM ties

The President said PLM also holds a special place in his family because First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos once taught at the university’s College of Law.

He said his family came to know firsthand through the First Lady’s years at PLM the university’s commitment to shaping future generations of Filipino professionals.

Marcos said PLM’s history is proof that “talent is universal and potential is found everywhere.”

“I therefore accept this recognition with a renewed commitment to uphold the values that this university has long championed: Karunungan. Kaunlaran. Kadakilaan. Wisdom, Progress, and Greatness,” he said.

The event was attended by Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, and other government officials. —AOL, GMA News