University News and Announcements

Staying true to the Lasallian mission of justice and compassion, the University of St. La Salle reaffirmed its commitment to democracy and human rights through the annual Jose W. Diokno (JWD) Lecture Series on April 2 at the St. La Salle Coliseum.

Established in 1992 to honor the late Sen. Jose W. Diokno, a distinguished Lasallian and human rights advocate, the lecture series has become a platform for intellectual discourse, featuring leaders, scholars, and key figures from various sectors.

This year’s lecture, titled “Journey to Justice: The Leila De Lima Story,” featured former Senator, Secretary of Justice, and Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Atty. Leila De Lima as the keynote speaker. 

Br. Irwin Anthony A. Climaco, FSC underscored the role of Lasallians as an agent of transformation, emphasizing the importance of standing up against injustice and advocating for the oppressed and marginalized.

“This conversation is not just about one person’s struggle; it's about the broader fight for democracy, human rights and the values that we hold here,” Br. Climaco said. 

Having endured experiences similar to the late Sen. Diokno, De Lima stands as a testament to resilience and the unyielding fight for human rights.

Like Diokno, who was imprisoned for six years under martial law, De Lima also suffered political persecution, spending nearly seven years in unjust detention, allowing her to reflect on her ordeal as a test of perseverance and a fight for justice against political persecution.

“It was a painful and difficult struggle, mentally and physically, especially in one sense. But it was also a time for reflection, an opportunity for moral strengthening,” De Lima shared, emphasizing that true dedication to a cause is tested in moments of adversity.

Moreover, De Lima also shared how she endured isolation, mental strain, denial of basic rights, and even a hostage crisis in an attempt to silence her opposition to the administration.

Despite the hardships and efforts to silence them, both Diokno and De Lima remained steadfast in their pursuit of justice.

The annual academic lecture is organized by the College of Arts and Sciences, in collaboration with the Political Science Department to enliven the memory and legacy of the late Lasallian senator.