Pasay city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday was conferred an honorary degree from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) and took the opportunity to inspire its latest batch of graduates to evaluate their success by the impact they have on others' lives.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos was awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa, PLM's highest distinction, during the university's 58th Commencement Exercises at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. The university recognized the President for his work in advancing the rule of law, economic development, access to education, public health services, and social equity.

Marcos expressed his gratitude for the honor, viewing it as an affirmation of the shared belief between his administration and PLM that education should be a gateway to opportunity and a driver of national progress. He urged the graduates to see education as more than just obtaining a degree or personal advancement, but as a tool to contribute to the nation's development.

He encouraged the graduates to leverage their acquired knowledge and skills to contribute to building a stronger and more prosperous Philippines. Marcos emphasized the government's initiatives to broaden access to higher education, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, noting the ongoing implementation of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education law and the expansion of financial assistance programs.

He highlighted that 2.62 million students are benefiting from Free Higher Education, along with scholarship and assistance programs like the Tertiary Education Subsidy and the Tulong Dunong Program. Additionally, the government has introduced the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program aimed at outstanding senior high school graduates pursuing priority degree programs.

Marcos also underscored the importance of technical-vocational education and training as a vital route to employment and livelihood. He pointed out that completing higher education or training signifies more than a diploma or certificate, as it provides individuals with a fairer chance at success, brings families closer to a better future, and equips workers with essential knowledge and skills.

In his speech to the graduates, President Marcos encouraged them to stay true to the ideals of PLM and use their education to help build a more compassionate Philippines.