House Minority Leader 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino "Nonoy" Libanan has reminded the country’s future health workers that compassion is of their greatest strengths in an ever-evolving world.

Libanan recently delivered a speech before graduating students and academic awardees at the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila School of Health Sciences’ System-Wide Recognition Rites, held under the theme “50 Years of Service, Social Accountability and Solidarity," at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

“Compassion is your biggest weapon against artificial intelligence (AI),” Libanan said, referring to the irreplaceable human ability to care, understand, and comfort others.

Quoting Albert Schweitzer, the ranking solon told the graduating students: "Everyone must work to live, but the purpose of life is to serve and to show compassion and the will to help others.”

Libanan says true education is not only about academic achievement but also about shaping character and giving hope to others.

He recalled the influence of his mother, Pacita, who was both a parent and a teacher in his life, and how he witnessed her dedication in preparing lessons, understanding her students, and finding joy in their success.

“Doon ko po natutunan na ang tunay na edukasyon ay hindi lamang tungkol sa mga grado o diploma. Ito po ay tungkol sa paghubog ng pagkatao at pagbibigay ng pag-asa sa kapwa,” Libanan said.

(That is where I learned that true education is not only about grades or diplomas. It is about shaping character and giving hope to others.)

Libanan also shared his personal connection to the healthcare profession, recalling that before studying law and entering public service, he was a Medical Technology student.

He said his training taught him the importance of discipline, patience, and respect for every member of the healthcare team.

“Sa larangan ng kalusugan, wala pong maliit na detalye. Ang bawat resulta ng laboratoryo ay maaaring maging batayan ng isang desisyong magliligtas ng buhay,” said the minority leader.

(In the field of health, no detail is small. Every laboratory result can be the basis of a decision that saves a life.)

“Sa likod po ng bawat specimen ay isang tao—isang pamilyang naghihintay ng magandang balita, isang batang umaasang gagaling, o isang mahal sa buhay na ipinagdarasal ng kanyang pamilya,” he added.

(Behind every specimen is a person—a family waiting for good news, a child hoping to recover, or a loved one being prayed for by their family.)

The minority leader also honored the UP Manila School of Health Sciences for five decades of fulfilling its mission of providing quality health education to communities that need it most.

“For 50 years, this institution has done more than produce graduates. It has formed men and women who understand that knowledge carries with it a responsibility to serve, particularly those living in underserved and marginalized communities,” Libanan said.