As St. Scholastica’s Academy San Fernando (SSASF) continues its SSAndaan Centennial Lecture Series, we are honored to welcome Leila de Lima, a trailblazing public servant, former senator, and renowned advocate for human rights and justice. Her upcoming lecture promises to be a profound exploration of the role of education in promoting social justice, the importance of civic engagement, and her unwavering commitment to defending human dignity.
A Life Dedicated to Justice
Leila de Lima’s career has been nothing short of courageous. Her early work as Chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) set the tone for a life committed to advocating for those who are marginalized and vulnerable. She tackled numerous human rights cases, including cases of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances, laying the groundwork for her subsequent efforts as Secretary of the Department of Justice (DOJ).
At the DOJ, de Lima spearheaded reforms aimed at strengthening the country’s justice system. She was known for her tireless work ethic and commitment to upholding the rule of law, regardless of political pressures. Her role in investigating powerful political figures, including the cases surrounding corruption and human rights abuses, earned her both admiration and resistance.
A Defender of Human Rights
Throughout her career, de Lima has been a tireless defender of human rights, particularly in the context of the Philippines’ war on drugs. She openly criticized the extrajudicial killings that accompanied the anti-drug campaign, calling for accountability and justice for the victims. Despite facing significant political backlash and personal attacks, de Lima remained resolute in her commitment to upholding the dignity and rights of every Filipino.
Her outspokenness led to her controversial imprisonment in 2017 on drug-related charges, which many international human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have condemned as politically motivated. Throughout her years in detention, de Lima has maintained her innocence and continued her advocacy, penning letters from her jail cell that call for justice and human rights reforms in the Philippines.
The Fight for Justice and Social Transformation
De Lima’s lecture at SSASF is not just a reflection of her legal expertise and career but also a call to action. Her life is a testament to the idea that justice is not an abstract concept, but a lived commitment to fighting for the rights of the oppressed, the marginalized, and those without a voice. Her experiences remind us that justice is a continuous pursuit, one that requires courage, resilience, and integrity in the face of adversity.
Her lecture will highlight the vital role of education in nurturing socially aware and justice-oriented citizens. She will likely draw connections between her advocacy and the importance of shaping the next generation to be leaders who prioritize human rights and the rule of law. De Lima’s story serves as an inspiration for students and the larger community, showing that despite the most challenging of circumstances, standing up for what is right remains a powerful force for change.
A Lecture Not to Be Missed
Leila de Lima’s upcoming lecture is set to be an inspiring and thought-provoking session. As one of the Philippines’ most prominent human rights defenders, her insights on justice, democracy, and civic responsibility will offer invaluable lessons for the SSASF community. Her story underscores the importance of standing firm in one’s principles, even when the odds are stacked against you.
This is a unique opportunity to hear firsthand from a woman whose dedication to justice and human rights has made an indelible impact on Philippine society. As SSASF continues its SSAndaan series, this lecture is a reminder of the school’s commitment to fostering not only academic excellence but also a deep sense of social responsibility.
We encourage everyone to attend and be part of this important dialogue. Together, let us learn from Leila de Lima’s life and advocacy as we continue the pursuit of justice, compassion, and transformative education. Mark your calendars for this significant event and join us in celebrating the power of education to bring about meaningful change.
