Now, this is how you apologize.
“The Ateneo de Manila University on Sunday, July 6, addressed criticisms caused by pictures circulating online, showing the university president, administrators, and students posing with Ilocos Norte Rep. Imelda Marcos,” reports ABS-CBNnews.com.
Marcos was one of many guests during the 40th anniversary celebration of the Ateneo Scholarship Foundation (ASF) last Saturday, July 5.
The report said she was invited since the
ASF started with a donation from the proceeds of a Van Cliburn piano concert organized by Marcos in 1974.
In a statement, Ateneo president Fr. Jose Ramon T. Villarin, S.J., said:
“Please know that in the education of our youth, the Ateneo de Manila will never forget the Martial Law years of oppression and injustice presided over by Mr. Ferdinand Marcos.
“We will not be catching up on nation building as we are today, had it not been for all that was destroyed during that terrible time.
“While not an official school arm, the ASF has been a source of many scholarships ever since its inception.
“The event last Saturday was a social one and, in spite of the visit of Mrs. Marcos, the evening was really a celebration of our scholars, the foundation’s scholarship programs, and the generosity of countless benefactors over the last 40 years.
“I apologize for any doubts that may have arisen on the mission of the school and the pain this event may have caused.
“As I hope for your understanding, I would like to assure you that we in the administration have learned our lesson to be more mindful of those we invite in our celebrations.
“More importantly, I would like to reaffirm that we have not forgotten the darkness of those years of dictatorship and that we will not compromise on our principles in forming those who would lead this nation, striving at all times to be ‘constantly true’ to ourselves and to our God.”
Screengrab of one of the viral photos from the ASF event, specific credits not readily available
