📸 A moment of honor for a lifetime of public service.
Dr. Acosta has long stood as one of the country’s foremost defenders of the marginalized, redefining public legal service with her bold, principled, and visionary leadership. Under her stewardship, the PAO has evolved into an institution of independence and excellence—ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in their pursuit of justice. Her pivotal role in the passage of the PAO Bill (RA 9406) solidified PAO’s autonomy and fortified the country’s access-to-justice framework. She is, without a doubt, one of the country’s most impactful changemakers under SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
In this powerful photo, Dr. Persida V. Rueda-Acosta, Chief Public Attorney of the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO), is presented with the Justice Luminary Award and her copy of the Icons of Change Commemorative Book—a tribute to her transformative contributions to justice, human rights, and good governance in the Philippines.
Sharing this milestone moment with her are distinguished leaders and partners of the Icons of Change Awards:
– 🎤 Gerry Mercado, President of Team Philippines - WCOPAa champion of creative expression and national talent
– 🤝 Mary Joan Saquing Ocampo, Director for Strategic Partnerships, whose work connects changemakers across sectors
– 🎨 John Guarnes, Co-Chairperson of Icons of Change, designer and advocate for impact through innovation
– 🌟 Annie Mercado, Director for Entertainment and the Performing Arts, celebrating artistry with purpose
Together, they represent a coalition of leaders across law, arts, media, and civic service—united in recognizing those who move society forward through service, courage, and conviction.
Congratulations, Doc Persida, for your tireless pursuit of justice and your fearless defense of the Filipino spirit. Your legacy continues to inspire not only the legal community but also the entire nation to rise for integrity, peace, and truth.
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