The Integrated Bar of the Philippines Rizal RSM Chapter held the oathtaking of its new members on July 6, 2024, at the Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan, Quezon City, through the event entitled SINAG: INDUCTION & AWARDS NIGHT. This annual event is also when the chapter appreciates and acknowledges those chapter members who have distinguished themselves in the legal profession.
The Rizal RSM Chapter welcomed the new member-lawyers from the last two batches of new lawyers (Caguiwow and Hernandoit Bar Passers), with approximately 20 from JRU Law School. Among them was Atty. Weddanever Cornel, an alumnus of our institution who was awarded the Bayanihan Legal Aid Lawyer Award. This award was given to exceptional volunteer lawyers who demonstrate unwavering dedication, exceptional service, and invaluable contributions through the chapter’s numerous clinics and outreach programs, legal aid caravans, free legal aid consultations, and pro bono legal representation to underprivileged individuals and communities.
The chapter also took the opportunity to recognize two non-lawyers, a first for the chapter. One was honored for long service to the chapter, spanning more than thirty years, while the contributions of a student-volunteer, Ms. Bene Rose Sulapas, also from our institution, were recognized for her outstanding service to the chapter, well beyond the requirements of the CLEP. Their selfless commitment to providing legal assistance has significantly impacted the lives of those in need and set a commendable example for all.
Due to the great deeds of these awardees, the new volunteer lawyers from our institution, and law student practitioners who rendered/are rendering their CLEP (Clinical Legal Education Program) mandated hours in IBP Rizal RSM, JRU Law School has been awarded in appreciation and sincere recognition of its steadfast partnership with the chapter. Additionally, Assistant Dean Editha Arciaga-Santos was also awarded in appreciation of her exemplary contributions and unwavering support to the growth of the IBP Rizal RSM Chapter and the legal profession. Her dedication to advancing legal education has been instrumental in supporting the initiatives and programs of the chapter, aligned with the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovation of the Supreme Court. Verily, the IBP Rizal RSM Chapter is looking forward to our continued partnership through the renewal of our Partnership Memorandum of Agreement with them this academic year.
It was a momentous and proud moment for all of us that night. The true essence of being a product of Jose Rizal University Law School was very evident. Indeed, Rizalians are truly committed to legal excellence with the biggest hearts to voluntarily serve those who are in need!