In a special board meeting held on July 11, the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Board of Trustees decided to award former Vice President Leni Robredo an honorary degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Economics (Honoris Causa).

"Maria Leonor ‘Leni’ Robredo was the country’s vice president for six years. In those years, she made remarkable contributions towards poverty alleviation, in spite of limited government budget, through the programs her office undertook with a vast network of partners—international organizations, local foundations and other non-government organizations, corporations, and local government units," ADMU said in a statement.
Robredo will receive the award on Aug. 27 and is also set to deliver a commencement speech to the graduates of the Loyola Schools on the said date.
According to ADMU, Robredo's response to the Covid-19 pandemic, various disasters, and human rights and Philippine sovereignty violations demonstrated leadership that is both "strategic and compassionate."
These qualities, ADMU said, are what they hope to form in its students, graduates, and employees.
An honorary degree is being given to individuals who have made significant and invaluable advancements in their field, said ADMU.
These people are also the ones who have dedicated themselves to a noble cause for the benefit of others, ADMU added.