HOUSE Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan urged future healthcare professionals to pursue their careers with compassion, selflessness, and a steadfast commitment to serving others, stressing that the profession is more than just a means of earning a living.

Speaking before graduating students and academic awardees during the University of the Philippines Manila School of Health Sciences System-Wide Recognition Rites at the Philippine International Convention Center, Libanan reminded graduates that healthcare is a solemn calling that places patients’ welfare above personal interests.

Held under the theme “50 Years of Service, Social Accountability and Solidarity,” the ceremony honored graduating students ahead of their formal college commencement exercises.

Libanan commended the UP Manila School of Health Sciences for its five decades of producing healthcare professionals dedicated to serving underserved and marginalized communities.

“For 50 years, this institution has done more than produce graduates. It has formed men and women who understand that knowledge carries with it a responsibility to serve, particularly those living in underserved and marginalized communities,” he said.

The lawmaker emphasized that education should not be measured solely by academic achievement but also by its ability to build character and inspire hope.

Reflecting on his upbringing, Libanan shared that his mother, who was also his teacher, instilled in him the belief that education is a tool for developing character and helping others.

He also revealed that he initially studied Medical Technology before pursuing law and entering public service, saying his healthcare training taught him discipline, patience, and respect for every member of the medical profession.

Libanan underscored the importance of precision in healthcare, noting that even the smallest details can have life-saving consequences, as laboratory results often guide critical medical decisions.

He reminded graduates that behind every laboratory specimen is a patient and a family hoping for good news, emphasizing the human impact of their work.

Congratulating the graduates, Libanan recognized not only their hard work and perseverance but also the sacrifices of their parents and the guidance of their teachers and mentors.

He encouraged the future healthcare workers to remember that their responsibilities go beyond technical competence.

“Your knowledge can change lives. Your presence can give hope. Your service can transform entire communities,” he said.

Libanan also urged graduates to consider serving in provinces, islands, and other remote communities where healthcare workers remain in short supply.

He stressed that investing in education and healthcare is among the nation’s most valuable investments, saying the country grows stronger when it produces not only skilled professionals but also compassionate citizens committed to public service.

Highlighting the role of empathy in healthcare, Libanan said compassion remains a uniquely human quality that cannot be replaced by technology.

“Compassion is your biggest weapon against artificial intelligence,” he said, stressing that empathy, understanding, and the ability to comfort others will always be indispensable in the medical profession.

Quoting humanitarian Albert Schweitzer, Libanan reminded graduates that while people work to earn a living, life’s greater purpose is to serve others with compassion and generosity.

He concluded by encouraging the graduates to keep dreaming boldly, work with humility, and dedicate their careers to serving others.