MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III donned an academic gown, hood, cap, and medal as he was conferred an honorary degree of Doctor of Humanities on Thursday, May 14.

According to a press release from Malacañang, Aquino was given the special degree by the Tarlac State University in “recognition of his distinguished political career and service to the Filipino people as Representative of the Second Legislative District of Tarlac Province in the House of Representatives from 1998 to 2007, Senator of the Philippine Senate, 14th Congress of the Philippines from 2007 to 2010, and as Fifteenth President of the Republic of the Philippines starting 2010.”

Aquino, who is from the province of Tarlac, is said to have received the degree for his “sincere reverence for placing the Filipino people as the ‘boss’ and foremost stakeholders in the development plans and reform programs; and in worthwhile note of bringing prestige to the Province of Tarlac for producing the Chief Executive of the Philippine Government, and the corresponding support to the propagation and development of culture and arts in the country.”

In his speech upon accepting his degree, Aquino said: “I am indeed grateful to Tarlac State University for conferring on me this honorary degree in humanities, which is an incredibly meaningful gesture. After all, I am a son of Tarlac, and it warms my heart knowing that none other than my fellow Tarlaqueños recognize what the entire nation has achieved these past 4 years and 11 months,” he said.

He also outlined his administration’s efforts in improving and ensuring education for Filipinos, such as the conditional cash transfer program and reforms in the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. – Rappler.com