SC Chief Justice Gesmundo receives honorary law degree from UC

Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the University of Cebu (UC) School of Law on Sunday.

The degree was conferred during UC's graduation ceremony in recognition of Gesmundo's significant contributions to justice administration and legal education.

Gesmundo was lauded by the university for his integrity and excellence in enhancing access to justice, leadership, and responsive justice delivery.

In his commencement address, the Chief Justice encouraged the graduates to practice law with integrity, innovation, and inclusion.

He highlighted the crucial role of technology in law but stressed the need for human judgment and conscience to guide its application.

Gesmundo urged new lawyers to champion judicial reforms and challenge the status quo, referencing the Supreme Court's Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations.

He also emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the legal system, especially for vulnerable sectors of society.

The Unified Legal Aid Service, mandating lawyers to provide pro bono hours to indigent clients, was cited as a key initiative for ensuring access to justice.