Senator JV Ejercito emphasized the lasting value of education as he addressed graduates of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), describing it as a form of support that can provide opportunities long after immediate assistance has ended.
Speaking during PUP’s commencement exercises, Ejercito said investments in education create long-term benefits for young Filipinos by equipping them with knowledge and skills they can use throughout their lives.
“Mas maganda mag-invest tayo sa edukasyon dahil panghabang buhay yung ayuda. Yung mga ipinamimigay na relief goods, pang-isang linggo lang ‘yan. Pero ang edukasyon, habang buhay na ito po ay magiging sandata sa pagtahak ng tunay na buhay,” Ejercito said.
Ejercito recalled his experience as a former local chief executive, saying he saw many residents seek different forms of assistance, including financial and medical aid. However, he said he believed providing access to education was among the most meaningful ways to help communities.
The senator also reminded the graduates to protect their integrity as they begin their professional journeys, saying their reputation would be shaped by the decisions they make.
“Matagal bago mabuo ang inyong reputasyon, pero ilang segundo lang para masira ito. Kaya panghawakan ninyo ang inyong integridad at huwag kayong masangkot sa korapsyon,” Ejercito said.
During the event, Ejercito also expressed support for PUP’s planned nine-story North Wing building, which aims to expand facilities for students. He previously helped establish the PUP San Juan Campus in 2008 during his tenure as San Juan City mayor, a project focused on bringing accessible higher education closer to students.
