Supreme Court Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh challenged the graduating class of the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law to become torchbearers of hope in a world facing profound challenges.

She urged the graduates to remain faithful to the Ateneo tradition of being persons for others, serving with honor and integrity even when no one is watching, and to trust that lives devoted to service can bring about lasting change.

As commencement speaker at the Ateneo Law School’s 80th Annual Commencement Exercises, Justice Singh called on the Class of 2026 to pursue lives of purpose, integrity, and selfless service, reminding them that “it is not the length of our service, but the depth of our love that matters.”

Singh reflected on the many people whose sacrifices made the graduates’ achievement possible, emphasizing that a law degree is never earned alone but through the unwavering support of family, friends, mentors, and the entire Ateneo community.

She encouraged the graduates to carry that same spirit of generosity and compassion into their professional lives.

Justice Singh also paid tribute to the late Ateneo Law Dean Jose Maria “Joey” Hofileña, recalling how a homily she heard after his passing gave her a renewed understanding of a life devoted to service.

She said Dean Joey’s legacy demonstrated that a life is measured not by its length but by the love, kindness, humility, and generosity shared with others.

Drawing from her own professional journey, Justice Singh shared that she had not originally intended to become a lawyer.

Although she entered law school reluctantly, she eventually discovered in the law “a true instrument of justice” through the influence of her professors and the eloquence of the judicial decisions she encountered as a student.

She also recounted how her experience in private practice ultimately led her to the judiciary after a mentor challenged her to become part of the solution instead of merely criticizing what she believed to be a broken system.

That challenge inspired her to serve as a judge and dedicate her career to improving court processes, reducing delays, and advancing reforms in the administration of justice.

Reflecting on her years in the judiciary—from the trial courts to the Court of Appeals and now the Supreme Court—Justice Singh underscored that meaningful reform is achieved through perseverance and a willingness to serve others.

She encouraged the graduates to embrace the Jesuit ideal of magis by striving not merely to do more, but to do better for others through lives marked by compassion, integrity, and hope.

Justice Singh also urged the graduates never to measure success by titles, positions, or years of service, but by the love and dedication with which they serve others, whether in private practice, government, the judiciary, academia, or other fields.