By Marjaleen Ramos
President Rodrigo Duterte hailed Colegio de San Juan de Letran for its contributions to the country as the Catholic institution marks its 400th founding anniversary this year.
(PHOTO FROM LETRAN.EDU/ MANILA BULLETIN)
Duterte signed Proclamation 908, declaring 2020 as "Year for the Celebration of the Quadricentennial Anniversary of the Colegio de San Juan de Letran."
“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 last February 21.
Letran, one of the oldest academic institutions in the country, was founded in 1620 by Don Juan Geronimo Guerrero, a retired Spanish officer, and Diego de Santa Maria, a Dominican lay brother.
Since then, it has survived wars and calamities, and has lived up to its commitment to provide excellent education.
Among its notable alumni are some of the country’s past leaders such as Emilio Aguinaldo, Manuel Quezon, Sergio Osmeña, Apolinario Mabini, and Marcelo del Pilar.
Letran currently has four campuses across the country — in Manila, Abucay in Bataan, Manaoag in Pangasinan, and Calamba City in Laguna.
Letran kicked off its quadricentennial celebration in November 2016.
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