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Law center offers to find lawyers for free poll help Fr. Julius Heruela of the Diocesan Electoral Board of the Diocese of Dumaguete said he hopes the Jovito Salonga Law Center of Silliman University will fulfill its promise to provide lawyers for free services to the DEB during the election season. Lawyer Mikhail Maxino of the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development had assured him of the assistance at Friday’s inter-agency consultation on election concerns with representatives from the police, Philippine Army, Commission on Elections, and local government treasurers. Heruela said finding lawyers for the DEB has been a perennial problem for them during election time, as most of them have already been commissioned by political candidates and parties. (read more) CJ's del Carmen Receives National Mentor Award
The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences formally recognized that dedication when it recently presented del Carmen a 2010 Outstanding Mentor Award during the organization’s annual conference in San Diego recently. A Regents’ Professor within the Texas State University System and Distinguished Professor of Criminal Justice at SHSU, del Carmen is considered one of the nation’s leading experts on criminal justice law and has been honored in numerous justice arenas as being among the top in his field with productivity and quality of work. (read more)
Salonga Center trains law enforcers for Case Investigation To intensify the investigation of cases in the City, the Dr. Jovito Salonga Center for Law and Development conducted a training for members of the Philippine National Police-Dumaguete City (PNP-Dgte). The one-day training-seminar held at the Moot Court of the Silliman University (SU) College of Law last February 26, 2010 provided the participants with new insights on case investigation following recent jurisprudence, legislative enactments, and legal issuances. Assistant City Prosecutor Angela Charina M. Cortes lectured on the New Rules of Inquest Proceedings and Article 125 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC). Atty. Ramon Nakao, a faculty member of the SU Law and a known lawyer in criminal law, handled the session on the Preparation of Affidavits of Complaint. On the other hand, City Prosecutor Eliezer P. Escorial talked about the Handling and Processing of Evidence. (read more) Salonga Center drafts Leyte green code
Approved by the province’s Sangguniang Panlalawigan on February 8, 2008, the Environmental Code aims to promote principles of ecologically sustainable development and ensure that all reasonable and practicable measures are undertaken by the local government units to prevent harm to the environment and to enhance its quality. (read more) Salonga Center volunteers participate in SU Guidance and Testing Center Random Drug Test Orientation To prepare the students for the mandatory random drug testing on February and March, the Silliman Guidance and Testing Center is currently conducting Orientation and Information Dissemination to all its College students with regard to the process of screening and the handling of results. The Guidance Center partners with the Salonga Center for Law and Development to properly inform the students of the drug testing process. Volunteer students of the Salonga Center are present in each Orientation to explain the legal aspects of the law and the Board Resolution and to answer the inquiries of the students regarding the legal implications of the drug tests. (read more) Salonga
Center's Legal Clinic goes to the barangays "This is our way of reaching out to the public," Terrence Anton Callao, a Salonga Center volunteer and junior law student, said in an interview. "We hope that this is a more effective way of educating people about their basic rights. Instead of the people coming to the Center, we will personally go and visit them in their barangays," he added. Senior and junior law students from the College of Law are present to assist the residents of each barangay in their legal queries and problems. Should an affidavit or any legal document be necessary, the student volunteers will then draft such document, to be notarized by volunteer lawyers from the Center and from the Office of the City Legal Assistance Services (OCLAS). (read more) Salonga
Center gives holiday cheers to 'street
kids in school'
Contractors
warned on safety, target
Without necessarily naming them, Second District Rep. George Arnaiz warned contractors of the P480 million road projects implemented in various cities and towns to ensure the safety and convenience of the motoring public passing through their project sites and keep up with the target date of completion or it will be difficult for them to win in the biddings next year. (read more) Walking
the extra mile
But in his reply to the Salonga Law Center thru director Atty. Mikhail Maxino, (published elsewhere in this issue) the good governor did not seem to get the point of the letter which obviously reflected the general sentiment of the riding public. Even if the governor conferred with the DPWH district engineer and the second district solon George Arnaiz who haggled for these projects –thanks to him — there simply are JUST MINOR efforts lacking from the implementers (which is the executive department) in making lighter the public’s ordeal in passing through those kilometers of massive cementing which has virtually doubled travel time in the second district. (read more) LETTER
TO GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
Sirs/Mesdames: We write to express the concerns and even the indignation of many over the on-going road constructions in the province. Although we heard that these constructions are national projects, the affected local government units have the legal obligation to see to it that the welfare of their inhabitants are not unduly compromised. Thus, we ask the Honorable Governor to immediately address the following concerns, and for the Honorable Sangguniang Panlalawigan to summon the concerned contractors and project managers and inquire into these concerns, in aid of legislation so that the appropriate ordinance may be passed to govern future road constructions. (read more) Legal
clinic on air at Silliman
“The legal clinic serves a dual purpose: it helps the community in its own modest way, and it helps sharpen the legal skills and knowledge of the law students,” Director Mikhail Lee L. Maxino explained. He added that the positive response of the community attracted more students to volunteer as anchors and resource speakers, noting an increase in the number of participating teams this year. (read more) NGOs
hit ordinance 5
The approved provincial ordinance will regulate outreach activities through medical and fact-finding missions in the countryside of Negros Oriental. President and executive director Msgr. Merlin Logronio of NEGORNET said the ordinance imposes heavy restrictions and gives limited mobility to legitimate groups, who aim to help in the development of the countryside. (read more) Salonga
Center strengthens barangay governance in Bacong
To enhance the performance of local barangay officials, the Salonga Center was invited by the local government of Bacong to facilitate the one-day Enhancement Seminar on Katarungang Pambarangay (KP) Law and Coastal Resource Management. Salonga Center Director Mikhail Lee L. Maxino discussed the intricacies of the KP Law with incoming senior students and Salonga volunteers Ma. Zusabel R. Digaum and Jason M. Bandal. Maxino also delivered a short lecture on Mediation Techniques. (read more) Oposa, Hagedorn Provoke Change
Atty. Manuel Arbon and four volunteers from the Salonga Center for Law and Development attended the forum and pledged their support to prevent climate change, in behalf of the Center and of Silliman University.(read more) Salonga Center’s A. Alviola Participates
in Prelim Activity
for Bantayan Island MPA Project
The project aims to establish and strengthen MPAs in Kinatarcan, Hilantagaan Daku, Hilantagaan Diyot, and Bantayan. (read more) Salonga volunteers reap awards in Grand Law Debate
Freshman student Donna Ametyst Bernardo was awarded Best Debater while junior student Ma. Zusabel R. Digaum got the Best Speaker award in the modified Oregon-Oxford format used during the debate. Both winners are recipients of the Rolando and Josefa del Carmen research assistance scholarship of the Salonga Center this year. Digaum was an Isagani Villanueva scholar last school year and has been a volunteer of the Salonga Center since her first year. (read more) Legarda speaks on 'Mass Media and Law'
The event was co-sponsored by Silliman University’s College of Mass Communication, the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development, the College of Law, and the Graduate Studies Program. Addressing mostly law and mass communication students of Dumaguete City, Legarda spoke about the relationship of the legal profession and the mass media profession. (read more) Free legal assistance
We congratulate the sitting officials of the city for resurrecting the OCLAS with the support of the city government and the community. The launching of OCLAS will make it possible for indigent city residents and government workers charged with cases arising in the honest and sincere performance of their official duties to have free legal representation and assistance from volunteer lawyers and students from the law schools of Silliman University, Foundation University and Negros Oriental State University, and other law schools that might be established in the future. (read more) City to form OCLAS
to render legal aid
City legal officer Neil Ray Lagahit said the OCLAS will be under the administrative supervision of the office of the City Mayor, but will maintain its independence. It will be handled by volunteer trial lawyers to be assisted by law students from Foundation University, Negros Oriental State University and Silliman University. It is now awaiting the approval of the Sangguinang Panlungsod of its implementing rules and regulations. (read more) Salonga Center goes green “EcoGov2 is about establishing a network of marine protected areas (MPA) in the southern part Negros Oriental. Four municipalities with marine protected areas are involved in the project, namely, Dauin, Zamboanguita, Siaton, and Basay”, Project Leader Portia Joy Kleiven said. “If a marine protected area network is established, enforcement becomes easier, the LGU’s can share the expenses, it becomes more economical, and the management and enforcement in the MPA’s becomes more efficient because the municipalities can monitor each other”, Kleiven added. (read more) Salonga Center Video Presentation Salonga Center links with NOCPED, provides HR lectures
Atty. Norberto Denura, JSC’s Labor and Agrarian Desk Coordinator and legal counsel for NOCPED, said that the continuing welfare of NOCPED members is one of the primary concerns of JSC. He further added that the lecture series was an enriching experience both for the NOCPED participants and the JSC volunteer lecturers, who are students of the Silliman University College of Law. NOCPED is a group of cooperatives, the members of which are farmer beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). (read more) Maxino discusses legal matters
The first activity was the Integrated Sangguniang Kabataan Organizational Leadership - Basic Orientation Seminar (ISKOLAR – BOS) last May 9, 2008 at Dauin Central School with the aim of developing the SK Officials into self-reliant, dynamic and creative community leaders. Subsequently, the Barangay Newly Elected Officals Orientation/Seminar (BNEO) was conducted at Dauin Cental School on May 19, 2008. (read more) SYL invites Maxino The Saceda Youth Lead (SYL) invites Dr. Jovtio R. Salonga Center for Law and Development Director Atty. Mikhail Lee L. Maxino as one of its resource speakers during its 9th National Summer Leadership Camp last April 16-27, 2008 at the SYL Center, Candau-ay Likod, Dumaguete City. According to Dave Saceda, SYL Chair and Founder, the said summer leadership camp gathers young people in our country with a sincere hope to make a difference by starting the change from within. “The modules and activities set are truly inspiring with the mission to develop every person’s potentials in order to create a community where enthusiasm is applauded, idealism is refined into an educated response and interest in the environment is nurtured to become a life-long commitment to a responsible public citizenry,” he added. (read more) Installation of farmers assured Agrarian Reform regional director Rodolfo Inson assured land reform beneficiaries that if there are no legal impediments, he can act immediately on petitions for their inclusions, exclusions, individual surveys and installation. Inson made the assurance at a dialog with the farmers under the Negros Oriental Center for People Empowerment and Development in Bais City yesterday. Various issues and concerns were resolved at the dialog that was attended by Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Grace Fua, Lynellete Barrameda, chief of the survey division in the region, CARP operations officer Tessie Corpuz, and municipal agrarian reform officers from the towns of Pamplona and Tanjay. Lawyers from the Dr. Jovito Salonga Center for Law and Development of Silliman University headed by Norberto Denura are assisting provincial agrarian reform chief legal counsel, Louie Naranjo, in fast-tracking the resolution of the cases. (read more) Farmers consult agrarian problems
The said activity was attended by Glynda Descuatan, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Negros Oriental Center for Peoples Empowerment and Development (NOCPED), Atty. Norberto Denura, Coordinator of the Labor and Agrarian Reform Desk of the Salonga Center together with six student volunteers, and around 50 leaders and members of MANAAKA from the different cities and municipalities in Negros Oriental. “We don’t assure to solve all the problems of the farmer-beneficiaries, but our concern is to see to it that our laws have been properly followed in implementing the agrarian reform programs and other related matters,” Atty. Denura stressed. (read more) ‘I
want to fix our country’ – Sen. MAR Roxas
“We see a disconnect in how, instead of being beneficiaries of the law, people become victims of the law. Because in reality, those who sworn to uphold the law are themselves breaking the law,” said Sen. Manuel A. Roxas, who was introduced to the Dumaguete academic community as the “country’s next President”-to a rousing applause. MAR Roxas was the academic convocation guest speaker at the Luce Auditorium in celebration of Law Week of the Silliman University College of Law last February 21. (read more)
Dr.
Salonga Tackles
11th Commandment in Sermon
Dr. Salonga introduced his message on the 11th commandment with a story about a boy who justified to a pastor that there is an additional commandment to what most people know as the 10 Commandments of God. “What is so new about this commandment?” Dr. Salonga asked, sharing that “Jesus had already compressed the commandments into two – Love for God and Love for our fellowmen.” (read more) Salonga
launches ‘Not by Power or Wealth Alone’
“This book is a collection of inspirational messages, and that’s inspiration enough for me,” said Salonga when asked what drove him to make a compilation of his speeches. The title of his book is from Deuteronomy 8:3 and from a statement of Jesus Christ, as found in Mathew 4:4: “Man does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (read more) Dr.
Salonga to Speak at UCLEW Celebration, Launch Book Former Senator Dr. Jovito R. Salonga will be the guest speaker at the launching of the University Christian Life Emphasis Week (UCLEW) celebration on February 3, during the 9:45 morning service at the Silliman University Church. The recipient of the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service in 2007, Dr. Salonga will speak on the theme “Growing in Christ: Living by the Truth and in Love.” This semester’s UCLEW celebration seeks to prepare more the graduating students as they pursue their respective careers. Faith-enriching activities following the theme are lined up for the students and the rest of the Silliman community to take part in from February 2 to 9.In an earlier morning service on February 3, the SU Church will be hosting as speaker Rev. Barton Kelso, who had served as pastor of the First United Presbyterian Church at Cambridge, Massachusetts for 25 years. (read more) Two Chief Justices visit Silliman
Former Chief Justice Artemio V. Panganiban, who retired from his post on December 6, 2006, was personally invited by Dr. Jovito R. Salonga as the guest lecturer during the inauguration of the Salonga Law Center last September 16, 2006 at the Luce Auditorium, Silliman University, Dumaguete City. Oil
exploration in Tañon watched DUMAGUETE CITY – Environmentalists are keeping a tight watch on the Department of Energy’s oil exploration drilling in Tañon Strait that was supposed to start this week. The drilling was to take place on board a floating oilrig, which was towed to the site, about three kilometers off the coast of Aloguinsan and Pinamungahan towns in Cebu. These areas are directly across La Libertad and Jimalalud towns in Negros Oriental. But the scientists fear that the noise of underwater blasting could harm sea creatures. Two weeks ago, about 170 marine scientists who met in Iloilo passed a resolution opposing any oil exploration activity in Tañon Strait, citing the strait’s unique biodiversity as a protected seascape. (read more) PCL
invites Salonga Center
ALSP-Visayas
coordinates with Salonga Center
The ALSP is a law students’ organization composed of more than 60 law schools nationwide. The event was hosted by the Silliman University College of Law with the aim of molding future lawyers who have a strong sense of legal ethics and an undying compassion for the welfare of the marginalized and the environment.(read more) Law Centers
discuss Humanitarian Issues
The discussions during the said seminar-workshop focused on extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and the Human Security Act. Director of Salonga Center Atty. Mikhail Lee L. Maxino said the issue on extrajudicial killings has become a major concern in the country and internationally. (read more) Salonga
gives cash award to SU
Salonga received a medallion, a certificate and the said cash award during the Presentation Ceremonies last August 31 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila. "I would be less than thankful if I assert [that] I was not attracted by the cash award of $50,000. But I have decided not to claim it for my own benefit," Salonga said in his speech. The cash award will be given to SU and two other entities: (1) Kilosbayan (People's Action), a people's organization, and (2) Bantay Katarungan (Sentinel of Justice), a non-government organization which harnesses the talents and idealism of qualified law students in the best law schools Manila. Both are independent, non-profit and non-partisan institutions. He also mentioned his brother, the late Benjamin Salonga, who was a Chemistry graduate from SU. Benjamin passed the Civil Service Examination and was employed in the Bureau of Science. (read more) Response
of Salonga during the 2007 Magsaysay Awards
I was cited by the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation for "the exemplary integrity and substance of (my) long public career in service to democracy and good government in the Philippines." I am humbled by the award and I accept it, with humility and gratitude. But what separates me from other political leaders is not known to many people here in the Philippines. It is the fact that I do not separate my religion from my political beliefs and from public service. As Mahatma Gandhi, the great teacher of peace and non-violence in a non-Christian nation, said many years ago: "Those who say that politics and religion do not mix do not know the meaning of religion." In my own case, because of my own religious upbringing-my father was a Presbyterian pastor and my mother was a woman of faith and spirituality-it was inevitable that my Christian beliefs and values should motivate and influence my thinking and my acts every day and every hour. (read more) Citation
for Salonga during the 2007 Magsaysay Awards
Seizing on this ambition, he rose through public schools to the College of Law at the University of the Philippines. When war overtook his studies, Salonga quickly ran afoul of the new Japanese authorities. He was tortured and jailed and released after nearly a year. Amid dearth and uncertainty, he crammed for the bar examinations and, in 1944, earned the highest score. At war's end, Salonga embraced Philippine independence but denounced "parity rights" and other compromising ties to the United States. He topped off his legal education with graduate degrees from Harvard and Yale universities and then plunged headlong into the life of his new nation. (read more) College
of Law to award 25th Outstanding SULAW awardee
It will bear the name of Dr. Rolando Del Carmen of SULAW batch 19565, who is the 25th Outstanding SULAW awardee since the award’s inception 10 years ago Del Carmen will be awarded in the field of legal education and is presently a professor of communal justice at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville Texas. According to SULAW president Atty. Eduardo Sedillo, this will be the first time that only one individual will be awarded since many of the nominated individuals were not able to complete submitting their requirements on time. (read more) Heritage
Builders, Order of Horace B. Silliman awardees to be honored
Ten members of the faculty and staff who have already passed away and have served in the university for over 20 years, will be recognized as Heritage builders. Each of their names will be permanently inscribed on a brick wall that will run along the SU Avenue near the university House, going towards the boulevard fronting Silliman Hall, and up to the side of the Administration building. The unveiling of the wall is slated on August 28. SU President Ben Malayang III said; “from the janitors to the deans, they will be recognized as heritage builders. It is about celebrating the lives of faculty and staff of the university who [have] dedicated more than 20 years of their professional career with Silliman. It is simply to acknowledge this commitment of service by that simple but meaningful gesture of permanently placing their names on the wall. (read more) Former SU
trustee receives Asia's highest honor
He was awarded in the field of Government Service. The six other Magsaysay awardees came from China, Nepal, India, and South Korea. "I am humbled by the award, it was supposed to be a secret until we receive the award on Aug. 31," said Salonga in the Philippine Daily Inquirer dated August 1. He was recognized through his long public career in service to democracy and good governance with exemplary integrity and substance. "It's well deserved and long overdue because he struggled for human rights in the midst of political [warfare], and he remained steadfast with his Christian faith. You can never hear anything [negative] about him," said Jovito Salonga Center for Law and Development Director Atty. Mikhail Maxino. (read more) Salonga
wins 2007 Magsaysay Award
On his being named a Magsaysay awardee, Salonga told the Philippine Daily Inquirer: “I am humbled by the award. It’s supposed to be a secret until we receive the award on Aug. 31.” The six other winners included three Chinese activists, an Indian journalist who highlighted vital social issues, a South Korean advocate for the disabled and a Nepalese pioneer in wireless technology. "The Magsaysay awardees of 2007 are truly moving Asia forward through their remarkable and selfless service to their respective societies," said Carmencita T. Abella, president of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, said in a statement Tuesday. (read more) Salonga
on air The Silliman University Dr. Jovito Salonga Center for Law and Development now has a one-hour live radio program that tackles common legal issues at DYEM 96.7 Energy FM. "Legal Clinic" which was launched last April 16, is broadcasted every Monday from 9 to 10 p.m. "[The show] was produced to fulfill the goal of the Center for public service. I was already thinking of this concept before so when Energy FM proprietor Ely Dejaresco asked if I was interested to venture into this kind of show, I agreed and decided to get my students involved so that it will be a training ground for them," said Salonga Center Director Mikhail Maxino. (read more) Legal
Clinic Radio Program Report The Salonga Law Center had once again demonstrated its devotion towards public service in a fashion both gainful to the public and to the future advocates of law. The volunteers of the center, who are law students of SU College of Law, had succeeded in “rolling the iceball” for about a month last summer vacation in the notable live radio program of DYEM FM’s “Dumaguete Tonight”, featuring Salonga Law Center’s “Legal Clinic”. (read more) Q
& A
on the Conduct of Free,
Salonga
Center discusses forms of government The Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development conducted a workshop on “The Forms of Government” last April 19 at the Siquijor Provincial Science High School (SPSHS), Caipilan in the Municipality of Siquijor. The activity was organized by the Greater America Siquijorian Association (GASA) together with the SPSHS in its 5th Youth Leadership Seminar last April 16-21 with a mission of developing a pool of responsible citizens and responsive leaders. It was participated by 25 high school students from public and private schools in the Province of Siquijor. According to Mr. Verna Mamicpic-Alih, co-coordinator of the said leadership seminar, “it is important that the participating students be made aware of the various forms of government with the possibility of a charter change and a possible change to parliamentary form of government in our country”. (read more)
Three volunteers of the Salonga Law Center namely Jorge Christian Cabrido, Christy Ann Marie Cong and Ace Victor Risma with the supervision of its Director Atty. Mikhail Lee Maxino together with the DYEM staff headed by its proprietor Mr. Ely Dejaresco participated in the launching of the program as well as in answering the listener’s legal questions and inquiries. According to Dejaresco, the Legal Clinic will cater to the needs of the people particularly those who are marginalized and underprivileged in responding to their legal concerns. However, he stressed that the said program will only provide free legal advices but not to represent the matter in court. (read more) Salonga Law Center, COMELEC and PNP tie up for election workshop April 11, 2007
The workshop is headed by Atty. Mikhail Lee Maxino, Director of the Salonga Law Center, Atty. Manuel Advincula, Provincial Supervisor of COMELEC, and Col. Melvin Ramon Buenafe, Provincial Director of PNP. Atty. Advincula lectured on the Role of COMELEC and Involved Key Agencies in the Conduct of Elections while Col. Buenafe on the Role of the PNP in the Implementation of Election Laws. (read more) Salonga
Center to hold workshop with COMELEC, PNP
xxx Meanwhile, the Jovito Salonga Law and Development Center, in partnership with the Comelec and the PNP, will hold a workshop for all people involved in the holding of the elections. This workshop has been scheduled for April 11. Lawyer Mikhail Lee Maxino, executive director of the Salonga Law Center, said the focus of the activity is to let the key agencies know their role and responsibility in the elections. xxx Dream
big, Senate President tells students
Senate President Manuel “Manny” B. Villar urged students from the University Town to continue dreaming for a better Philippines in a University Convocation spearheaded by the Dr. Jovito Salonga Center for Law and Development, Thursday, March 15. “Do not forget to dream. Do not lose that nationalism. Do not lose that optimism to build a better country,” he said, explaining that to improve and make a better society, Filipinos should shun the traditional way of thinking, where there is “no dream to expand, to compete, and to be the best.” (read more)
GMA7 gives 50K
to Salonga Center The GMA7 Network donated Php 50,000 to the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development earlier this month in supports of the center’s mission and vision. Salonga Law Center Director Mikhail Lee Maxino said that the money will directly go to their advocacy programs, like the recently concluded “Pahinungod—Reaching out to the Barangays.” Maxino said GMA7 may have donated as a Yu Tiencos of RCBC,” Maxino said. “President [Ben] Malayang took the initiative to personally write these prospects attaching my own letter which was more detailed,” he said. “I am happy that GMA responded first and positively.” Maxino also recognized the Salonga volunteers for their passion in working for the Center who, despite the scarcity of financial resourses, still continue to work in upholding the center’s mission and vision. “With people like these, we will definitely grow and continue to generate programs for the betterment of the national and local communities,” Maxino said. Free
legal counsel Legal help for free! SU College of Law (SULAW) juniors offer regular free legal counseling services not only to Sillimanians, but to the public as well, at the Salonga Law Center, Villareal Hall. "We are required to render legal aid services like giving legal opinion to walk-in clients," law junior Nila Sastrillo said. "If there are walk-in clients who have legal problems, they could discuss these with us and we could give legal advice or perhaps research on what we can do about the problem." Counseling sessions are available from Monday to Friday, at 2-5pm. The free legal services will end at the end of the semester late March. In the name
of service A vision with action can truly make a difference. However, things change with time. For the past two years, I was involved in various endeavors where my knowledge of the law was applied to serve our fellowmen. And the best thing that it gave me was that I now had another motivation to continue studying law--service. Last summer, when I joined the 2006 Alternative Law Group Summer Internship Program, we advocated the rights of the indigenous peoples in Panay Island. The precious smiles and gratitude I earned from the participants made my summer internship fulfilling and heartwarming despite the hardships I encountered in the process. (read more) 'Noynoy'
Aquino speaks for democracy
This was the words of Hon. Noynoy C. Aquino during his discussion on the topic “Has Democracy in the Philippines Widened or Shrunken after EDSA I?” held last February 12, 2007 at Moot Court, Villareal Hall, Silliman University, Dumaguete City. Aquino is
currently the Deputy Speaker of the 13th Congress of the Philippines
for 2004-2007 and the Representative of the 2nd District of Tarlac. Pahinungod
II: Legal Orientation conducted in Barangay Tubtubon, Sibulan
Barangay Tubtubon was the second barangay where a legal orientation was conducted under the “Pahinungod – Reaching out to the Barangays” program of the Salonga Law Center. It was spearheaded by the Director of Salonga Law Center Atty. Mikhail Lee Maxino together with student volunteers from Silliman University College of Law. “I asked the Salonga Law Center to conduct a legal orientation in our barangay so that we will know more about our duties and responsibilities particularly our new volunteers,” Barangay Captain Amancio Desor said. (read more) Discussion
Forum with Former Ambassador Romero
Ambassador Jose E. Romero, Jr., former Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Italy and executive director of the Asian Center for the Study of Democracy, presented his position paper entitled “What Constitutional Reform Should Address” at the Dr. Jovito Salonga Center for Law and Development. “You should educate the voters and provide them with enlightened choices,” he urged the participating teachers, student leaders, non-government organization (NGO) representatives, and center volunteers, adding that the people need to take a stand in order to cope with the current political crisis. (read more) Salonga
Law Center, PROCESS conducts forum
This was
what Judge Alfredo F. Tadiar, one of the speakers, said during
the Pre-MCLE Forum on Constitutional Reforms, Alternative Dispute
Resolution, and Elections held last February 2, 2007 at Moot Court,
Villareal Hall, Silliman University, Dumaguete City. The speakers of the said event were Dean Froilan M. Bacungan, former dean of the College of Law, University of the Philippines, on the topic “Should Cha-cha be considered dead?”, Atty. Jove V. Aspiras on “Requirements for Party-List Accreditation and Implications on the Marginalized and Underrepresented”, and Judge Tadiar on “The Rationale for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Court-Annexed Mediation (CAM)”. (read more) Good relations
with strangers sometimes pay off
A distinguished professor of criminal justice at the Sam Houston State University in Texas, Del Carmen was about to board a tricycle back to his hotel. Maxino called out to him, introduced himself and offered to drive him to his place. That was the last time they saw or heard of each other. Or was it? Maxino, former dean of the SU College of Law, was soon named first director of the newly created Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development on campus. Part of his job was to look for funds to sustain the center’s operation. (read more) Pahinungod:
Salonga Law Center Orients Barangay Officials The “Pahinungod” program was established for the purpose of reaching out to the various barangays here and outside the province in providing them information and assistance on legal matters and issues. (read more) Chief
Justice Gives Inaugural Lecture for Salonga Law Center The Chief Justice was referring to the harnessing of the law to transform society and improve the lives of people, an initiative reflective of Dr. Salonga’s deep-seated compassion for the poor and downtrodden. Personally invited by former Philippine senator Dr. Salonga, his "lifetime mentor", Panganiban spoke on the topic "Access to justice by and for the poor". (read more) Salonga
Center Formally Launched
Among those who were present at the event were SU President Dr. Ben Malayang III, SU Board of Trustees chairperson Prof. Leonor Briones, SU College of Law Dean Atty. Myles Nicholas Bejar, SULAW President Atty. Eduardo Sedillo, and Salonga Center Director Atty. Mikhail Lee Maxino. (read more) |
(035) 422-6002
For more than 35 years, criminal justice faculty member Rolando del Carmen has been respected by his students for his commitment to mentor them during their time at Sam Houston State University, continuing with his support even after they graduated.
As requested by the provincial government of Leyte and the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ), an international cooperation enterprise, the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development finished the initial drafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Environmental Code of the Province of Leyte.
Road contractors who do not comply
with all requirements and give inconvenience to the taxpaying public
will not be considered in the future road construction projects.
The Salonga Center
for Law and Development based at Silliman University raised relevant
questions to the governor why despite the welcome-P480-million road
development projects in this second district national highway, the
public is made to suffer such inconveniences which otherwise could
be avoided, if managed properly.
The
Honorable Dr. EMILIO C. MACIAS II
In
keeping with its thrust of justice accessible to all, the Salonga
Center for Law and Development continues its legal clinic on air
at DYSR- Silliman Radio every Monday, 7:30 in the morning.
Members of Negros
Oriental Network of NGOs trooped to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan
session hall Thursday to air their objection to Ordinance No. 5
that was enacted into law on Dec. 10, 2008.
Failure is not an option.
SCLD’s very own Ms. Andrea Alviola took part in a preliminary resource assessment activity that was held last April 13-17 in Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu. The assessment is an important activity of the project “Establishing a Network of Marine Protected Areas in the Bantayan Island Group” that is jointly implemented by the Law of Nature Foundation’s School of the SEAs and Silliman University-Angelo King Center for Research and Environmental Management. 
The Jovito Salonga Center for Law and Development with the joint initiative of the Silliman University Angelo King Center for Research and Environmental Management (SUAKCREM) has launched its project, Environmental Governance 2 (EcoGov2).
To further its mission of accessible justice and its thrust of community linkage, the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development provided a free lecture series last July 2, 2008 at Bacongham Palace, Bacong, Negros Oriental as part of the three-day People’s Organizers training of the Negros Oriental Center for Peoples Empowerment and Development (NOCPED).
Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development Director Atty. Mikhail Lee L. Maxino was invited by the Municipality of Dauin, Negros Oriental in its two activities last summer to talk about the topic “Accountability and Basic Legislation”.
The President of the Liberal Party of the
Philippines has lamented the situation in the country where some
people who do not obey the law are the ones who get ahead; and
how those who take legal shortcuts are the ones who move up the
ladder.
Former Senator Dr. Jovito Salonga spoke
about the 11th commandment in his sermon at the launching of the
University Christian Life Emphasis Week on February 3 at the Silliman
University Church. 
Dr. Jovito R. Salonga launched his latest
book entitled Not by Power and Wealth Alone last February 3 at
SU Church right after the launching and commissioning service
of the University Christian Life Emphasis Week.
The Philippine Councilors League (PCL) Negros
Oriental Federation invited the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for
Law and Development to discuss the Parliamentary Rules and Formulation
of Resolutions and Ordinances during its District Orientation
and Workshop last November 15, 2007.
With the theme “Becoming Lawyers with
a Conscience”, the Association of Law Students of the Philippines
(ALSP) Visayas coordinated with the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center
for Law and Development for the conduct of its regional conference
last October 26-28, 2007.
The Institute of International Legal Studies,
University of the Philippines (UP) Law Center in cooperation with
the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development conducted
a seminar-workshop on International Humanitarian Law Issues in
the Philippines last October 12, 2007 at Moot Court, College of
Law, Silliman University. 
This year's Ramon Magsaysay Awardee for
Government Service Dr. Jovito Salonga will be giving his cash
award of $50,000 to Silliman University (SU) and to two other
entities.
Madam President, Members of the Board of
Magsaysay Award Foundation, My Fellow Awardees, Distinguished
Guests: 
Jovito Salonga's long life began only twenty-two
years after the onset of American rule in the Philippines. His
youth was a time of national hope and longing for independence.
These things shaped him, alongside his family's deep Christian
convictions and the hardships of their daily life. When he was
twelve, a speech by the independence-champion Manuel Roxas in
his hometown stirred him to dream of a life in law and in public
life. 
THIS YEAR, ONLY A SINGLE BRONZE tablet will
be added to the present 24 names listed on the Outstanding Silliman
University Law (SULAW) Alumni Association awardees glass case
located at the Villareal Hall lobby. 
For the first time, SILLIMAN University
(SU) will honor deceased faculty and staff who have served the
university for over 20 years, and recognize
top donors of SU programs and projects. 
Former Board of Trustees member Dr. Jovito
Salonga is the sole winner from the Philippines in this year’s
Ramon Magsaysay Award. 
Former Senate President Jovito R. Salonga
is among the seven winners of the 2007 Ramon Magsaysay Award,
Asia’s version of the Nobel Prize. Salonga,
87, won the award for government service for “the exemplary
integrity and substance of his long public career in service to
democracy and good government in the Philippines.”
A radio program providing free legal advices entitled “Legal
Clinic” was officially launched by DYEM 96.7 Energy FM under
its regular program “Dumaguete Tonight” last April
16 in cooperation with the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law
and Development. 
The
Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development together
with the Commission on Elections and the Philippine National Police
of Negros Oriental conducted a one day Inter-Agency Integration
and Coordination Workshop on the Conduct of Free, Credible, Honest,
Orderly and Peaceful (FCHOP) Elections on April 11 at the Silliman
University Multi-Purpose Hall.
Dream big; Work hard. 
The
very reason why I entered law school was because my parents wanted
me to. Having a very supportive family, both financially and emotionally,
I followed their plans without hesitation. Although studying law
is not really easy, the thought of my parents' hard work inspired
me to strive hard in my studies.
“The
system of representative democracy is still the best form of government”. 
The Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development has conducted
another legal orientation for the barangay officials, tanods,
lupong tagapamayapa, and peace and order volunteers of Barangay
Tubtubon, Sibulan, Negros Oriental last February 11, 2007. 
A former Philippine Ambassador challenged the local community
to take an active part in changing the kind and style of governance
in the country in a discussion forum last Thursday, February 8.
“Vision
with action can change the world.” 
FOUNDER’S
DAY was one of those busy times at the Silliman University in
Dumaguete City in August last year when law professor Mikhail
Lee Maxino and his wife Inday saw visiting alumnus Rolando V.
del Carmen. 
In pioneering Transformative Law, the Dr. Jovito R. Salonga Center
for Law and Development started is “Pahinungod” program
by conducting a legal orientation for the barangay officials and
tanods of Barangay San Antonio in the Municipality of Sibulan,
Negros Oriental last December 3, 2006.
Chief
Justice Artemio V. Panganiban of the Supreme Court of the Philippines
congratulated the Silliman University College of Law for pioneering
in transformative law, during his inaugural address for the Dr.
Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development held September
16 at the Luce Auditorium in Silliman University, Dumaguete City.
Former Philippine
Senator Jovito Salonga was the guest of honor and speaker of the
18th Silliman University (SU) Law Alumni Association, Inc. general
assembly on August 26, 2006 at the Villareal
Hall of the SU College of Law, Dumaguete City. The assembly also
coincided with the launching by the former senator and former
member of the Board of Trustees of the university, of the Dr.
Jovito R. Salonga Center for Law and Development at the SU College
of Law.