Dr. Jovito Salonga memorial service was held on August 24 at the Udarbe Chapel in Silliman University. During the service, words of welcome were given by Silliman University president Dr. Ben S. Malayang III. Among those who came to pay tribute were Ms. Melanie Doromal, Dr. Angel C. Alcala, and Dr. Salonga’s son, Esteban Fernando Salonga. The service commemorated Dr. Salonga’s contribution to the society as a war veteran during the World War II, a scholar of law in Harvard, a survivor during the Plaza Miranda bombing, a freedom fighter combating against Ferdidand Marcos’ administration, a statesman and an educator. Estaban Salonga delivered an inspirational eulogy on how Dr. Salonga is as a father and a public servant. One of the highlights of his political career was gaining a position as Senate President. He was also a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award for government service. Benjamin Salonga, his elder brother who supported him in law school, finished Bachelor of Science in Chemistry in Silliman University. This established Dr. Salonga’s strong connection to the university. In 2006, Silliman University College of Law launched the Dr. Jovito Salonga Center for Law and Development to pioneer and develop what the law center calls as Transformative Law – ‘the study and application of law to transform society, shape policies through advocacy, legal education, research, training, and service learning.’ During his sermon, Rev. Dr. Noriel Capulong also paid tribute to Dr. Salonga’s exemplary deeds in public service. In referring to Dr. Salonga, Rev. Dr. Capulong said: “Heroes are barely noticed in their own generation, in their own time. It will only be in the later years when their contributions become more appreciated and resounding.” Dr. Salonga died on March 10 this year at the age of 95 due to cardiac arrest. The Memorial Service was made possible by Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development, headed by its Director, Atty. Mikhail Lee L. Maxino, the Office of Alumni and External Affairs, headed by Mr. Ruben Bokingo and the Silliman University Church represented by Rev. Dr. Jeaneth Faller. – Milcah Inggo (SU Law/ Salonga Center Volunteer) (c) Nash Denver Baya (SU Law/ Salonga Center Volunteer)
