Good afternoon Ambassador Albert del Rosario, ladies and gentlemen from members of International Graduate University's boards of Governors and Advisors and the Induction Committee who have made this ceremony possible. Our Democracy Hall of Fame International stimulates the spread of democracy around our world by publicly honoring distinguished individuals, such as Dr. Helena Z Benitez, who have made a positive difference in our civilization.

      The evolution of democracy was possible because of the Judeo-Christian systems of values, such as held by Dr. Benitez, that allowed the freedom to choose a way to happiness and did not restrict one's beliefs or associations with non-believers. Concepts of equality of all, freedom of choice, love and respect of others, including those outside of one's family, in essence, the brotherhood of man, contrasts with values of hate, murder and torture of some other religious extremists. Those whose answer to life lies in taking destructive action against individuals and groups who differ from them has resulted in minor and major crises in the United States, Philippines, Russia, China, Nigeria, Malaysia, and many other nations.

      Observation of the clash of cultures within nations and between nations indicates that it has become increasingly evident that democratic representative governments with honestly elected officials are the long-term answer to the human pursuit of happiness. It is absolutely essential for us to demonstrate our support for democracy throughout the world if civilization is not to regress. We all can help by honoring Dr. Benitez and other outstanding persons, like her.

      We thank you for joining us in this glorious ceremony today.

      The Honorable Dr. Helena Z Benitez, who was the first woman and the first Asian inducted into the Democracy Hall of Fame International, is distinguished as an international academic and legislative leader. As an elected Assembly Member and Senator in the Philippines, she was honored by being selected the "Most Outstanding Lady Senator." During World War II, in addition to being awarded The Legion of Merit for Humanitarian and Heroic Service, she was recognized as a leader in education. As President, of the Philippine Women's University, she became the first woman member of the Board of the International Association of Universities. While a legislator and member of the Philippine Parliament, she was the primary author of a wide variety of legislation focused on the environment, youth, resettlement of dislocated families, home financing and forestry protection. Her leadership in these fields, as well as in other human service endeavors, made her a world renowned citizen.