Together with some faculty, alumni, and a number of third-year students of the Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) – College of Law, participated in several medical-legal aid missions in Laak, Davao de Oro, and Marilog District, Davao City.
On 22 July 2023, in support of Good Neighbors International Philippines, the University Community Engagement and Advocacy Council (UCEAC) spearheaded a medical-legal mission held in Brgy. Kilagding and Brgy. Aguinaldo, Laak, Davao de Oro. Some volunteer doctors, nurses, personnel, and staff from the University community took part in this initiative. Legal services were provided by the third-year law students, alongside faculty members and graduates from the College of Law. Their involvement not only extended legal assistance but also offered valuable insights into the legal concerns of the community.
On 05 August 2023, another medical and legal mission community outreach program was organized at Sitio Puting Bato Community, Marilog District, Davao City. Together with UCEAC, this initiative was led by the ADDU Blue Knight Association. Volunteer doctors, dentists, and nurses generously contributed their time and expertise to aid the local community. Several third-year law students, under the supervision of faculty lawyers and alumni, were on hand to provide legal guidance to those in need.
The active participation of these third-year law students is closely related to their Legal Counseling subject, integrated with the Clinical Legal Education Program (CLEP). These students, who are certified CLEP 1 practitioners, are authorized to engage in limited law practice. The CLEP program immerses them in experiential learning with the primary goal of ensuring access to justice for marginalized sectors, enhancing the learning opportunities of aspiring lawyers, and preparing them for the legal profession.
These medical-legal aid missions not only showcase the commitment of the University to community service but also highlight the dedication of its law students, faculty, and alumni to making a positive impact on society.
Article and Photos by the Atty. Jazzie M. Sarona-Lozare (College of Law)
