MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday urged the new law graduates in Iloilo City to stay steadfast in the principles they were brought to their calling as lawyers of the country.
In his speech during the 3rd Commencement Exercises of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Law in Iloilo City, Marcos reminded them that their chosen profession "carries a responsibility to ensure that the poor, the vulnerable, the marginalized, the disenfranchised, are not left without protection simply because they lack wealth, or influence, or power."
"At a time when public trust in institutions is tested, responsibility becomes even more important. Your success will not be measured solely by the cases that you win or the positions that you will hold," Marcos said.
"It will be measured by the confidence that people place in you, by the fairness with which you exercise your profession, and by the integrity you demonstrate even when no one is watching," he added.
Marcos also urged the new law graduates not to be swayed by fleeting opinions or the allure of convenience.
"So long as you remain anchored in integrity, fairness, and truth, you shall never lose your way," the President said.
"May you always choose principle over convenience, truth over falsehood, and service over self-interest," he added.