The Lyceum of the Philippines University - (LPU) Manila conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws degree on Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo on Thursday, Oct. 12, for his valuable contribution to the country and the LPU community.
The conferment of the Degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa, upon Gesmundo, took place during LPU-Manila’s 71st Commencement Exercises held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
“Allow me to express my eternal gratitude to LPU for the degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa, conferred upon me today,” Gesmundo said.
While he has been conferred such a degree by other universities, Gesmundo noted: “Nothing would compare to the joy and honor of receiving one from my alma mater, our alma mater.”
Proud Lycean
Gesmundo obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from LPU in 1977.
In his commencement speech, Gesmundo paid tribute to LPU for honing him to the best that he could be.
“There is no doubt that what prepared me for that journey was the academic training and education I received from LPU,” Gesmundo said. “LPU honed me to the best that I can be,” he added.
The proud LPU alumnus said that while studying at the university, he “developed the discipline and perseverance necessary for the endeavors I would like to undertake.”
“I learned to strive for excellence and reject mediocrity,” he said. “Indeed, it was my studies in LPU that my character was formed,” he added.
In 2007, Gesmundo was also named an “Outstanding Alumnus” of the LPU.
Receiving the Honoris Causa
LPU-Manila conferred the Honoris Causa to Gesmundo in recognition of his “distinguished career and unwavering commitment to justice make him a beacon of inspiration for our graduates and the LPU community.”
The honorary degree is conferred upon individuals for outstanding achievements in their fields and exemplary service to their fellowmen.
Gesmundo, LPU-Manila said, has dedicated his life to “upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice for all, and strengthening the legal system in our country.”
“His tireless efforts in advancing the cause of justice have left an indelible mark on our society, and his exemplary leadership has set high standards for legal professionals and public servants alike,” LPU-Manila added.
“By conferring the Honoris Causa upon Chief Justice Gesmundo, we aim to not only recognize his exceptional contributions to the legal field but also to inspire our graduates to pursue excellence in their respective endeavors,” LPU-Manila said.
For his part, Gesmundo said that receiving the honorary degree is a “reflection not of my own personal achievements but of LPU’s commitment to nurturing graduates who are ready to lead in their respective fields.”
Commencement speaker
Aside from conferring upon him the honorary degree, Gesmundo also served as the commencement speaker for this year’s commencement exercises.
“We believe that his presence at our commencement ceremony will serve as a source of motivation and a reminder of the profound impact individuals can have when they dedicate themselves to the pursuit of justice and the betterment of our society,” the LPU-Manila said.
LPU-Manila College of Law Dean Ma. Soledad Mawis introduced Gesmundo as the commencement speaker.
Mawis described Gesmundo as “one who was able to live the true calling of all Lyceans service above self” and “clearly the personification of truth.”
Gesmundo was appointed as the 27th Chief Justice of the Philippines on April 5, 2021.
He first joined the Supreme Court as its 178th Associate Justice on Aug. 14, 2017.
Before his appointment to the High Court, he served as Associate Justice of the Sandiganbayan for 12 years.
Gesmundo entered government service in August 1985 as a Trial Attorney in the Office of the Solicitor General. He was on Seconded Appointment as Commissioner of the Presidential Commission on Good Government from 1998 to 2001.
In 2002, he was promoted to Assistant Solicitor General. He continued to serve in the Office of the Solicitor General until his appointment to the Sandiganbayan in 2005.
Gesmundo completed his Bachelor of Laws degree at Ateneo de Manila University in 1984 and joined the Philippine Bar in April 1985.
Value of nationalism, doing what is right
During his commencement speech, Gesmundo underscored the importance of nationalism, education, humility, and a sense of social responsibility.
While nationalism is “not contrary to global citizenship,” Gesmundo stressed the need to “maintain our individuality.”
Amid the changes, Gesmundo noted that nationalism remains a virtue as ever. “Our love for our country and citizens will give meaning and purpose to our lives and our experiences,” he said.
Addressing the graduates, Gesmundo also highlighted the significance of education as a “driver of social change.”
“Indeed, education is the foundation of society and a prerequisite of social progress,” Gesmundo said.
Recognizing the dangers of disinformation brought about by easy access to social media, Gesmundo also reminded the graduates to fight for the truth.
“Now more than ever, we have a duty to educate ourselves to be discerning and critical to know the truth,” he said. “It is our duty to defend the truth when it is attacked and to challenge lies with facts, to make sure that truth is never distorted,” he added.
Moreover, Gesmundo told the graduates to cultivate the value of humility. “As long as you maintain this mindset of humility, learning and growth will come easily,” he said.
Gesmundo reminded the graduates that their purpose is “not just to build your own resume but to develop your strength of character.”
Thus, he urged them to always: “Do the right thing with matters big or small. Do the right thing even when no one is looking. Do the right thing even when it is difficult.”
Gesmundo also reminded the graduates that wherever they may go or whatever field they pursue, they have to “cultivate a strong sense of social responsibility.”
“As Lyceans, we have a higher calling to work not just for our own comfort and success but to use the skills and lessons we have learned for the greater glory of God, in the service of our nation and its people,” he said.
Aside from recognizing Gesmundo’s outstanding accomplishments, LPU-Manila noted that the event was also a celebration of the significant milestone in the academic journey of its students.
Also present during the ceremony was LPU-Manila President Roberto Laurel, who led the conferring of titles and degrees, along with other university officials.