Iloilo city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. addressed the graduating law students of West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Law, urging them to prioritize character and public service above personal gain as they step into the legal profession. Speaking at the WVSU Cultural Center in La Paz, Marcos emphasized that success in the legal field should be measured not just by professional achievements but by integrity and the trust of the public.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos highlighted that the true measure of a lawyer extends beyond intelligence or eloquence to encompass character. He reminded the graduates that their chosen profession holds a purpose greater than personal ambition, urging them to uphold integrity and fairness even when unobserved.

Marcos underscored the critical role lawyers play in ensuring fairness and protecting human dignity within the justice system. He cited former president Ramon Magsaysay's principle that those with less in life should have more in law, emphasizing the responsibility of lawyers to serve the poor and marginalized.

The President urged graduates to remain true to the principles that guided them to their calling, advising them to choose principle over convenience and service over self-interest. He expressed confidence in their potential to contribute to nation-building under a new era grounded in the rule of law and accessible justice.

Around 17 of the 25 law graduates were students of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, who also attended the commencement exercises. Established in 2020, the WVSU College of Law is the first and only state university in the Western Visayas Region offering legal education, aiming to produce trial-ready, well-trained lawyers committed to advocating for the rule of law and justice.