Malacañang defended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday following online backlash over his recent honoris causa conferred by the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) during its 58th commencement exercises, asserting that the recognition reflects his service as head of state.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro clarified during a press conference that an honorary degree differs significantly from an earned academic qualification.
“Ang titulong honoris causa ay isang honorary degree. Ito ay isang pagkilala o parangal para sa taong mataas ang naabot na posisyon. May mga mahalagang naiambag sa komunidad o mga nagawa para sa bansa,” Castro noted.
“At hindi ito nakukuha sa pamamagitan ng tradisyonal na pag-aaral, pagpasok sa law school, o pagpasa sa bar examinations,” she added.
Castro attributed the public criticism to a lack of understanding regarding the Latin title, suggesting political motives behind the negative reaction.
“Ang mga tumutuligsa rito ay mga taong kung hindi man mapagmataas ay mga kumakalaban sa Pangulo, the usual obstructionists at destabilizers, o yung mga sumasakay lang sa nakikita sa social media, pero hindi nauunawaan ang totoong issue,” she stated.
“Mahalagang malinawan ibang kababayan natin na naloloko ng iba gamit ang fake news o ng pagiging mapagmataas lamang,” Castro expressed.
Highlighting achievements to justify the accolade, Castro cited the administration’s firm stance on the West Philippine Sea, anti-corruption initiatives, fuel security measures during Middle East conflicts, and support for overseas Filipino workers in Russia and Qatar.
“Huwag natin kalimutan ang pagtindig pa lamang ng ating Pangulong, Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. sa karapatan natin sa West Philippine Sea,” Castro said.
“Ang pagpaputol ng 300-meter floating barrier na inilagay ng China Coast Guard sa Scarborough Shoal noong September 2023 para harangin ang ating mangingisda na makapasok at makapangisda sa traditional fishing lagoon ay isang gawain ng isang matapat na leader,” she added.