Vincentian Brand: Empowering legal minds with compassion & justice

Date Posted: December 19, 2024 at 11:10 AM


Adamson University College of Law (AdU Law) stands out in the Philippine legal education landscape with its unique approach, blending academic rigor with a deep commitment to social justice.  

Under the leadership of its eighth dean, Atty. Anna Maria Abad (or Ada, as she prefers to be called), the College of Law has become a nurturing ground for future legal advocates driven by compassion for the disadvantaged, and it is this distinct mission that sets it apart from other law schools in the country. 

In an exclusive interview, Atty. Abad explained that the College’s vision, which she described as more than just providing students with legal education, but about molding lawyers who will use their expertise to make a real difference in society.  

“At Adamson University, we don’t just teach law; we teach it with a purpose,” she said. “Our goal is to mold lawyers who not only understand the intricacies of the legal system but who are also driven by a deep sense of compassion for the underserved.” 

AdU Law’s commitment to social justice is deeply rooted in the Vincentian ethos, which calls for love and care for the poor and marginalized. This sense of responsibility sets Adamson apart, ensuring that its graduates are not only prepared to navigate the complexities of the legal system but are also equipped to advocate for the most vulnerable members of society. 

 

Through the lens of social justice and human dignity

In line with its values, the College emphasizes a comprehensive academic approach that encourages intellectual growth while nurturing ethical and emotional understanding of the law.  

“Our students are not just taught how to interpret laws […] they are trained to view law through a lens of social justice and human dignity, ensuring that their legal careers are impactful and purposeful,” Atty. Abad said. 

This commitment to practical, socially conscious education is evident in the College’s achievements. Last June 2024, graduates Jose Mari Callueng (2022) and Myron Dominick Manalastas (2024) were selected for the British Council’s 90 Youth Voices for the Future program. Representing young leaders from over 50 countries, the program aims to bridge cultures and drive positive change. Both Callueng and Manalastas have exemplified Adamson’s ethos through their community service and human rights advocacy, earning them this prestigious recognition. 

Callueng has been known for pushing his human rights advocacy during his law school days. He also played a pivotal role in establishing AdU Law’s Community Paralegal Training Program, funded by the British Council's Governance in Justice Program. Meanwhile, Manalastas has been actively involved in various legal aid projects, providing essential legal services to the poor and marginalized. 

The curriculum at AdU Law is designed to be both rigorous and holistic. Integrating real-world legal applications into their academic programs, students gain hands-on experience beyond theoretical knowledge.  

Faculty members, a mix of seasoned practitioners and experts, challenge students to think critically, engage ethically, and develop practical skills. This academic foundation prepares students to face the dynamic challenges of the legal profession. 

“Students do not just learn about the law. They learn to apply it in a way that positively impacts society,” Atty. Abad emphasized.  

Through various outreach programs, including pro bono work and legal clinics, students are given the opportunity to help those who often lack access to legal services. These initiatives allow students to apply their learning in real-world contexts, reinforcing their commitment to social justice. 

This balance between academic relevance and social awareness is evident in programs like the UNOPS-GOJUST Clinical Legal Education Program in early 2022. Supported by international partnerships, namely the European Union and British Council under the Governance in Justice II Program for the Clinical Legal Education Program of Law Schools, this initiative enables students to engage with communities such as Towerville, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, providing legal assistance to almost 10,000 families. 

This focus on practical application of legal education, particularly for the disadvantaged, underscores the College’s unique approach. While other law schools may focus on producing well-rounded legal professionals, AdU Law centers its mission on producing lawyers who advocate for the marginalized, prioritizing public interest work and community service. 

 

Beyond the classroom

Adamson also ensures that its students’ education goes beyond the classroom, offering various student organizations and extracurricular activities that build leadership, teamwork, and professional connections.  

“We are a community where every student’s voice is heard and their concerns addressed,” said Atty. Abad. “Our students aren’t just numbers; they are individuals with unique talents and dreams that we work together to realize.” 

The law school’s commitment to inclusivity and student support is a cornerstone of its approach. AdU Law fosters an environment where students feel encouraged and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background.  

With a focus on personal development and academic achievement, students are provided with the tools to thrive inside and outside the classroom. 

Through its innovative programs, AdU Law continues to expand access to legal education. Its flexible learning options, including the Master in Legal Studies (MLS) program and the rigorous Juris Doctor program, cater to a variety of academic and professional needs.  

 “The Legal Education Board only requires 52 units [for the MLS program], but if a student completes the entire second year [of AdU Law’s MLS program], that's 72 units, which is 20 more units,” Atty. Abad expounded.  

“[If I were the student, my mindset must go: “For me, my real goal is to take up Law. The MLS is more like a bonus for me”—that is how I see it. Others, however, aim to pursue the MLS first and then decide later whether to take up law, but for me, I want them to take up Law.” 

AdU Law stands as a beacon of legal education where academic excellence meets social responsibility. The College instills in its students a sense of purpose beyond the traditional pursuit of a law degree, fostering a community of legal professionals who are adept in the law and dedicated to using their knowledge to serve society.  

The College’s distinct focus on producing socially conscious lawyers who advocate for the underserved makes it a unique institution in the Philippines. Adamson University College of Law offers more than just legal education—it provides the foundation for a career dedicated to serving justice, making a difference, and fighting for those who need it most. 

Here, students are prepared to become lawyers and leaders who drive change and promote justice in every corner of society. It is a place where law is not just learned but lived. 

As Atty. Abad so aptly puts it, “Our law school is not for those who seek power for themselves, but for those who wish to use their knowledge of the law to uplift the marginalized and ensure that justice prevails for all.”