On 01 September 2024, Sunday, the Western Mindanao State University-College of Law (WMSU-CLAW) continues to make significant strides in bridging the gap between legal education and community service with the successful launch last 11 August 2024 in Barangay Bunguiao and ongoing activities of its extension program, BATAS: Building Legal Awareness and Transforming Areas in the Rural Sector under the CLINICAL LEGAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (CLEP). With the full support of University President, DR. MA. CARLA A. OCHOTORENA and supervised by DR. JOEL G. FERNANDO, Vice President for Research Extension Services and External Linkages and the Department of Extension Services and Community Development, the BATAS program, under the leadership of ATTY. JULES CHRISTIAN D. MARCOS, Dean of WMSU-CLAW, is a testament of commitment in enhancing the practical skills of its law students while making a tangible difference in the communities they serve. It is a pioneering initiative aimed at providing law students with hands-on experience in real-world legal practice while simultaneously empowering rural communities.
During the second successful Sunday event in Barangay Bunguiao, Law students from Juris Doctor Section 4-B (JD-4B) Group 1, handed Katarungang Pambarangay flyers to each participant, recapping the salient points from the previous seminar, specifically the types of cases covered under the community-based dispute resolution system. Thereafter, conducted a comprehensive and interactive seminar on Republic Act (R.A.) No. 11313 otherwise known as Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law). After which, provided free Legal Consultation and Notarial Services to the residents of Bunguiao and nearby barangays under the guidance and supervision of CLEP Advisers, ATTY. MARIE CHRISTELLE RUBIO and ATTY. JIHAN EL EDDING with the assistance of two guest lawyers, ATTY. REY LORENZ GONZALO and ATTY. MA. PURITA ARQUIZA, who volunteered to support the program as a way of giving back to the community. Even with the unexpected power outage along with the worsening weather conditions, the program pushed through and catered to all clients seeking legal aid and notarial services despite limited time.
The presence of law students from JD-3A and JD-3B also contributed to the success of the event, as they played an active role in facilitating and documenting the activities, and ensuring its smooth operation. Their dedication and teamwork were instrumental in the collaborative spirit that underpins the success of the BATAS program.
Also, the day’s activities were further enhanced by the generous distribution of raffle prizes, sponsored by various Law Firms duly respected in Zamboanga City.
Lastly, in line with the objectives of BATAS Program and the directive of National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director, JUDGE JAIME B. SANTIAGO (Ret.) to bring closer the services of NBI to the people, a one (1) day Mobile/Offsite clearance issuance was simultaneously conducted by the NBI-Western Mindanao Regional Office 9 (WEMRO 9) under the leadership of RD MOISES B. TAMAYO. This service added another layer of accessibility, allowing community members of Barangay Bunguiao to obtain necessary legal documents without the need to travel to the Central Business District locally known as “Pueblo”.
Anent, there was a significant increase of participants who attended the BATAS program conducted last Sunday, September 1, 2024, than its launching event last August 11, 2024. We encourage all residents of Barangay Bunguiao and nearby barangays to join and participate in the upcoming schedules of the BATAS program every Sundays from 9am to 3pm at the Bunguiao Elementary School until December 2024. Tentative dates of BATAS program are as follows:
1. September 8, Sunday;
2. September 22, Sunday;
3. October 6, Sunday;
4. October 20, Sunday;
5. November 10, Sunday;
6. November 24, Sunday; and
7. December 8, Sunday.
As the program progresses, it continues to embody the University’s mission to make legal education more relevant and impactful. By bringing legal awareness and assistance to rural sectors, the BATAS program is not only shaping the future of WMSU Law Students but also empowering communities by making the law accessible to all.
Words by: Team Salvacion (JD-4B Group 1)
Reviewed by: Atty. Marie Christelle T. Rubio
Photos taken by: JD-3B
