By: Levi May Coleman & Eduard Solomon
The actor-turned-senator Robin Padilla couldn’t contain his pride for the candidates of the 64th College of Criminal Justice and 59th Graduate School Commencement Exercise of his alma mater, Philippine College of Criminology (PCCR) on August 12, 2023, at the Plenary Hall, Philippine International Convention Center.
Padilla shared in his speech that his imprisonment played a huge role in striving to be better in life but PCCR made the transformation possible.
“Tatlo’t kalahating taon po ako naging kriminal pero nagkaroon po ng transformation ‘yan, from kriminal to criminologist at ang gumawa po ng transformation na ‘yan ay ang PCCR. (I’ve been a criminal for three-and-a-half years but there was a transformation, from criminal to criminologist and the one that brought this transformation is PCCR.)”
He also expressed his gratitude to parents and guardians of the candidates for their unyielding support, something that he noted that he can relate to as a father and a grandfather himself.
Senator Padilla, who bagged the top spot in the 2022 senatorial race, also expressed his concern over the “rotten” system in the country, noting that change should come from the people rather than the government.
“Inaasahan ko na sa inyo dapat magmumula ang pagbabago. Kasi kung aasahan n’yo ‘yong sistema, mga anak, wala. (I am hoping that change will come from you. Because if you rely on the system, children, none.)”
Padilla bid the graduating candidates congratulations whilst reminding them that their motivation should be their driving force and that without it, there is none.
PNP Chief Police General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. and Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. also delivered inspirational speeches during the ceremony.
The senator congratulated the 417 graduates of the College of Criminal Justice and the 44 graduates of the Graduate School, reminding them that their motivation should be their driving force and that without it, there is none. He encouraged them to continue striving for excellence and to be proud of their achievements.
Senator Padilla was joined by two equally prestigious speakers in the Commencement Exercises: Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. and Philippine National Police Chief Police General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr.
PCCR, which has a rich history of producing outstanding graduates in the field of criminology, has once again proven its commitment to providing quality education to its students. The institution’s mission is to produce globally competitive and morally upright graduates who can contribute to the development of the country.
The graduating candidates, who have undergone rigorous academic training and practical experiences, are now ready to take on the challenges of the criminal justice system. They are expected to uphold the highest standards of passion, integrity, and excellence in their chosen careers.
The 64th College of Criminal Justice and 59th Graduate School Commencement Exercise of PCCR was a momentous occasion that celebrated the achievements of the graduating candidates. The presence of Senator Padilla, who is a proud alumnus of the institution, added prestige to the event and inspired the graduates to be the agents of change in society. PCCR’s commitment to producing globally competitive and morally upright graduates is a testament to its dedication to providing quality education and shaping the future leaders of the country.