"Go where you are needed and serve."
That was what Angat Buhay NGO chairperson and former Vice President Leni Robredo told graduates of Adamson University on Thursday during the latter's 84th Commencement Exercises.
Robredo, who paved the way for the establishment of what is poised to become the widest volunteer network in the Philippines, urged the new graduates to "find out what your community needs and fight alongside its advocates."
She also called to practice "empathy" at all times because "the more we do it, the more we understand what is truly asked of us."
Robredo made the call as she said that the challenge now awaiting the new graduates is to immediately pursue their path and not to wait for them.
"Today is where the real work begins," she said.
"Kayo na mismo ang maghanap ng landas. Tumukoy ng mga puwang na dapat punan. Tumungo kung saan pinaka- kinakailangan at doon maglingkod (Look for your path to follow. Identify spaces that need to be filled. Go where you are needed and serve)," she added, noting that "we are not alone."
Robredo, who once expressed regrets in not fighting fake news during her vice presidency, also urged the graduates to "assert the truth at every instant" as well as volunteer their skills and time "for just causes."
"Speak out against hate, lies and disinformation. Continue to persevere and strive," she added.