President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. was conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws degree, Honoris Causa, by the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) on Thursday, during the university's 58th Commencement Exercises in Manila.

The recognition came from the Manila city government-run university, which was established in 1965 and has been known for offering free tuition to qualified Manila residents — a backdrop that gives weight to the Board's citation of Mr. Marcos' work on expanding educational opportunities for the youth.

"I stand before you, humbled as the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila confers upon me the degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa — its highest honorary degree," Mr. Marcos said in his speech. "I receive this honor with gratitude, mindful of the responsibility that comes with it."

PLM Board Resolution No. 5706 cited Mr. Marcos' leadership in national development, upholding the rule of law, promoting social equity, and expanding educational opportunities, according to Elvira Cruz, university secretary and secretary of the PLM Board of Regents.

"His Excellency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., has demonstrated exemplary leadership in advancing national development, upholding the rule of law, promoting social equity, and fostering educational opportunities for the youth. Whereas, His Excellency's vision, programs, and projects have substantially contributed to progress in education and public health in the City of Manila and the nation," Ms. Cruz read during the livestreamed ceremony.

"Whereas, Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa, is an honorary degree conferred upon individuals whose achievements and service merit homage by the academic community, recognizing his contributions to law, governance, public administration, and the rule of law," she said. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking