Sumablay sa UP | Maria Serena I. Diokno, UP Manila Commencement Speaker 2025

“Positions do not confer honor. You bring honor to the position.” Professor Emeritus Maria Serena I. Diokno, former chair of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, addressed the Class of 2025 at the University of the Philippines Manila’s 116th Commencement Exercises on July 22. Diokno urged the graduates to embody UP’s ideals of honor, excellence, and service, not as mere words, but through action. “What use are intellect and talent,” she asked, “if you lack principles or the courage to stand by them?” She emphasized that honor is not inherent in titles or positions, but earned through integrity and responsibility. Diokno challenged the members of the Class of 2025 to carry these ideals forward in their careers and public lives. UP Manila conferred degrees on 1,264 graduates, 682 of whom received Latin honors. Produced by Al Nikko John M. Nagutom and Karl Castro, UP Media and Public Relations Office (MPRO) Videos courtesy of UP Manila #SumablaySaUP #Pagtatapos2025 #UPManila #HonorExcellenceService