FULL SPEECH_ Miriam Defensor Santiago at the University of Perpetual Help, Laguna 480

Arrival in Manila was met with rain and heavy traffic.
The speaker expresses confidence in overcoming these obstacles through prayer to Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
Emphasizes the importance of genuine leadership from young people, particularly from the University of Perpetual Help.
Imagines a vibrant campus community where students meet and interact.
Belief that graduates will emerge as authentic leaders for the nation, contrasting them with hypocritical leaders.

Acknowledgment of corruption where citizens' hard-earned money is misappropriated by criminals.
The call for the intervention of Our Lady of Perpetual Help to uplift the values of the Filipino people: faith, hope, and charity.
The hope for moral improvement during the speaker's lifetime and a charity-based community.
Criticism of political candidates who promise job creation but fail to deliver.
Emphasis on the need for new businesses and capital to generate 2,000,000 jobs.
Urgent call for self-confidence among Filipinos to boost economic and social progress.

The speaker contrasts the Philippines’ natural resources with the lack of self-confidence among its people.
Affirms that every individual is known and valued by God.
Reciting a quote about self-determination and responsibility for one's destiny.
A heartfelt plea to the audience to join in transforming the nation and taking control of their collective fate.