Justice Lopez to LPU grads: Sacrifice comfort, stand for justice

Graduates of the Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) College of Law were urged by Supreme Court Associate Justice Jhosep Y. Lopez to be ready to sacrifice comfort, reputation, and favor in their pursuit of justice.

Speaking at the LPU College of Law graduation ceremony on 26 July 2025 at the JPL Hall of Freedom, LPU Manila Campus, Justice Lopez encouraged the graduates to live out the school’s core values: Veritas, Fortitudo, and Pro Deo et Patria.

Justice Lopez underscored how fortitude is “more than endurance — it is the moral courage to stand for those who cannot stand for themselves... It is the same courage you must carry as Lyceans — advocates for the voiceless, defenders of the vulnerable."

He emphasized that fortitude is not the absence of fear — it is the resolve to act despite it.

Sharing his own journey, Lopez recalled being rejected when he applied as a Metropolitan Trial Court judge. It also took him four attempts before he was appointed to the Court of Appeals and seven rejections before joining the Supreme Court.

“Each rejection hurt. Each one demanded reflection and renewed purpose,” he said.

Despite encountering setbacks, Lopez said he persevered, overcoming self-doubt and exhaustion. He reminded the graduates that there will be times when they will question whether their work can truly make a difference or if justice is truly possible.

“But it is precisely in those moments—when doubt and fatigue press hardest—that your Lycean education will shine brightest.”

Justice Lopez also stressed the importance of truth, which is forged through dialogue, listening, and the courage to question even personal beliefs.

He shared that as a Supreme Court justice, he is constantly reminded that the pursuit of truth is never solitary.

“I often tell my fellow Justices that the Court feels like the country’s most rigorous law classroom. We debate, we dissent, we challenge each other to think more deeply… Truth, then, is not a destination but a constant process of learning. It is a lifelong process of inquiry and humility.”

Lopez called on the graduates to dedicate themselves to service — stepping beyond their comfort zones and using the law not for personal gain, but for the good of others and the nation.

“Serve not for applause or recognition, but for the quiet victories that uplift others. Let others be content with comfort and privilege. Your calling is greater: to seek truth, to endure with courage, and to give more than what is required — for a nation that still longs for justice.”

Justice Lopez was joined by LPU officials led by University President Atty. Roberto P. Laurel; Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jennifer D. Tucpi; LPU College of Law Dean Atty. Ma. Soledad Deriquito-Mawis; Executive Director for Administration and College of Business Administration Dean Randolph V. Sacdalan; College of International Tourism and Hospitality Dean Dr. Lilibeth C. Aragon; Graduate School Dean Dr. Samuel S. Chua; and LPU Alumni Association President Abu MD S. Rahman.