Duterte hails Letran on its 400th founding anniversary

President Rodrigo Duterte lauded the Colegio de San Juan de Letran, one of the oldest academic institutions in the country, for its contributions to Philippine society.

Duterte issued the statement as Letran marks its 400th founding anniversary this year.

“The State recognizes the Colegio de San Juan de Letran’s contributions to our history and nation-building, through the formation of individuals who have excelled in various fields, including national heroes, leaders and artists, as well as through community services to the poor and needy,” the President said in Proclamation 908 signed on February 21.

Letran was founded in 1620 by Don Juan Geronimo Guerrero, a retired Spanish officer.

The Intramuros-based Catholic school has produced some of the country’s past leaders and heroes including Manuel Quezon, Sergio Osmeña, Apolinario Mabini, Marcelo del Pilar, and Emilio Aguinaldo.

Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea earned their college degrees from Letran, which also has satellite campuses in Abucay in Bataan, Manaoag in Pangasinan, and Calamba City, Laguna. — DVM, GMA News