The Bicol University, the premier state university of the Bicol Region, has conferred the degree in Doctor of Humanities, Honoris Causa (Posthumous) upon former President Corazon C. Aquino on 17 April 2012 at Malacañan Palace, Manila. The event was graced by no less than His Excellency President Benigno S. Aquino III who received on behalf of his mother a Plaque of Commendation including the Academic Robe, Hood and Cap during the conferment rites. It was an honor bestowed on President Cory, as she is fondly called, for her outstanding qualities as a Stateswoman and exemplary leader in public service, and her contribution to poverty alleviation through her work in microfinance.

The Heroes Hall of Malacañan Palace was teeming with dignitaries, former and current officials in government, key leaders from the business sector and the development community as well as friends and supporters of the late President Cory who have gathered in this special occasion to honor her remarkable achievements as president and private citizen towards improving the lives of Filipinos.

In the President’s message, he thanked the Bicol University for granting her mother a posthumous degree in Doctor of Humanities in recognition of her positive contributions to Philippine society and humanity as a whole, known to be a global icon of democracy. He noted her mother’s pure intentions in leading the country to bring about real change – peace and economic growth – towards a better future for all Filipinos. He also praised President Cory’s lifelong aspiration and significant efforts to provide new opportunities for growth through microfinance and micro-entrepreneurship together with local and international institutions. He said his government is committed to the development of small and medium enterprises that provide jobs and livelihood to the communities. Finally, he called on the people’s continued active participation in community work and nation-building in keeping with the memory of President Cory.

Former President Cory’s inspirational and selfless leadership anchored on the power of the people has brought individuals and groups alike to join in her advocacies towards lasting peace and poverty alleviation. In her fight against poverty in the country, the Hanns Seidel Foundation/Germany (HSF) has worked closely with her in the development and strengthening of cooperative enterprises in the countryside through the Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation (NCAF, formerly Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Foundation), skills training/dual vocational training through the Tarlac Training Center (TTC) and Jose and Demetria Cojuangco Foundation Inc. (JDCFI), and in building the capacities of microfinance institutions (MFIs) and micro-entrepreneurs through the PinoyME Foundation (PMEF) and NCAF. These partnerships have helped in fueling economic growth and employment generation.

It is an honor and privilege for HSF to have known and worked with President Cory and to be given the opportunity to continue supporting her legacy in the spirit of democracy, peace and development.

Photos courtesy of Mr. Tata Gil, Presidential Photographer’s Division, Malacañan