ILOILO City – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. challenged graduating law students of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) to become defenders of truth and public trust, warning them against choosing convenience over principle as they prepare to enter a profession he described as vital to preserving confidence in the country’s justice system and democratic institutions.
Speaking during the 3rd Commencement Exercises of the WVSU College of Law at the university’s Cultural Center in La Paz district on June 5, Marcos said lawyers carry a special responsibility to uphold integrity, fairness, and justice, especially at a time when public faith in institutions continues to face challenges.
“As you face a new chapter, I hope you will stay steadfast in the principles that brought you to this calling. Do not be swayed by fleeting opinions or the lure of conveniences,” Marcos said.
“So long as you remain anchored in integrity, fairness, and truth, you shall never lose your way. May you always choose principle over convenience, truth over falsehood, and service over self-interest,” he added.
First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, a lawyer, had been a faculty member of the WVSU College of Law. She was also in attendance at the graduation ceremony.
The President stressed that success in the legal profession should not be measured by courtroom victories or prestigious positions, but by the trust and confidence earned from the public.
“Your success will not be measured solely by the cases that you win or the positions that you will hold,” he 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.”
Marcos said lawyers play a critical role in strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that justice remains accessible, particularly to those who lack wealth, influence, and power.
“This is a reminder that your chosen profession carries a responsibility — to ensure that the poor, the vulnerable, the marginalized, and the disenfranchised are not left without protection simply because they lack wealth, influence, or power,” he said.
Drawing inspiration from Iloilo City’s moniker as the “City of Love,” the President reminded the graduates that justice should never lose its human dimension.
“Perhaps there is no more fitting place for this occasion than Iloilo City, what we fondly call the City of Love,” Marcos said.
“There is meaning in that title, especially for those who have chosen the study and practice of law. While the law demands firmness, rigor, and objectivity, justice must never lose sight of its humanity. It must always carry compassion, fairness, and respect for human dignity,” he explained.
President Marcos also reflected on his family’s ties to the legal profession, noting that his father, former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., was a lawyer.
“In fact, I have heard enough stories about recitations, classroom debates, and examinations to know exactly how much hard work was required for you to be here today,” he added.
“My confidence in this graduating class is stronger than most because the First Lady believes in you. And as far as I’m concerned, if she believes in your capability, then I’m inclined to believe her—as most good husbands always do,” Marcos said, drawing laughter from the audience.
The President emphasized that character remains the defining trait of a lawyer.
“Beyond intelligence or eloquence, it is character,” he said. “And if character is the true measure of a lawyer, then it cannot be left to chance. It must be formed, nurtured, and demanded of those who serve.”/PN
