We, the undersigned members of the Bedan community and concerned alumni, formally call upon the administration of San Beda University and the San Beda Unversity Alumni Association (SBUAA) to immediately revoke the Ramon Mitra Award it recently bestowed upon Representative Jesus “Bong” Suntay.

A Bedan award is not merely a recognition of professional success; it is a testament to an individual’s embodiment of the Benedictine hallmarks of community, stewardship, and respect. Recent actions and public pronouncements by Atty. Suntay have proven to be diametrically opposed to these sacred values.

The basis for this call stems from Atty. Suntay’s recent conduct during a Congressional hearing, where he issued a deeply misogynistic and derogatory statement directed at a female public personality. Such language is not only an affront to the dignity of women but serves to degrade the very institution of the House of Representatives.

As Bedans, we are taught Ora et Labora (Prayer and Work) and the importance of humility and justice. To use a position of power to disparage and demean based on gender is a violation of the "Peace" (Pax) that our alma mater stands for.

Of equal concern is Atty. Suntay’s conduct following the incident. In subsequent media interviews, rather than offering a sincere and humble apology—a cornerstone of Benedictine character—he displayed a startling lack of remorse. By doubling down on his rhetoric and failing to acknowledge the harm caused, he has demonstrated that the values of self-reflection and accountability have been discarded in favor of political convenience.

Upholding Benedictine principles
The Ramon Mitra Award is named after a distinguished Bedan statesman known for his integrity and service. To allow Atty. Suntay to continue holding this honor diminishes the prestige of the award and sends a dangerous signal to the current student body that professional achievement can excuse moral bankruptcy.

The Alumni Association has a solemn duty to act as the vanguard of the school’s principles. We believe that:

Character is Non-Negotiable: Awards should be maintained only by those whose ongoing conduct reflects the school’s motto, Fides, Scientia, et Virtus (Faith, Knowledge, and Virtue).

Protection of Dignity: A Benedictine education teaches us to see the Christ in every person. Misogyny has no place in the heart of a Bedan.

We urge the San Beda University Board of Trustees and the Alumni Association to act swiftly. Revoking this award is not an act of malice, but an act of institutional integrity. It is a necessary step to reaffirm that San Beda University remains a sanctuary of respect and a molder of men and women who lead with heart, not with vitriol.

That in all things, God may be glorified.