Palace defends Marcos honorary degree from PLM

MANILA, Philippines — Citing his significant contributions to the nation, Malacañang yesterday defended President Marcos against those criticizing his honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM).

Palace press officer Claire Castro said an honorary degree is awarded to people for their outstanding contributions to society rather than academic completion.

“Many perhaps don’t understand the term honoris causa. Those who criticize the President are either arrogant or those who oppose him – the usual obstructionists and destabilizers – or those who simply just ride on what they see on social media but don’t understand the real issue,” Castro said.

Kabataan party-list Rep. Renee Co criticized the PLM for conferring an honorary Doctor of Laws degree on Marcos, citing the longstanding corruption issues involving his family, among other issues.

PLM conferred the honorary degree on Marcos during the university’s 58th commencement exercises on Aug. 27.

Castro reminded the public about the President’s initiatives, including his unwavering stance on the country’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.

She cited Marcos’ order to remove the 300-meter floating barrier installed by the China Coast Guard on Panatag or Scarborough Shoal in September 2023.

Castro said Marcos, who respects human life and due process, is against the abuse of power, and even initiated investigations into corruption issues.

She also cited the President’s efforts to save a Filipino from death row and rescue Filipinos in Qatar facing illegal assembly charges as well as 24 nationals detained in Eastern Siberia, Russia.

Castro added that Marcos has also ensured the country would not run out of fuel amid the conflict in the Middle East.

According to a resolution of the PLM Board of Regents, Marcos “has demonstrated exemplary leadership in advancing national development, upholding the rule of law, promoting social equity and fostering education opportunities for the youth.”