San Beda University - College of Law Alumni Homecoming 2021

2021 Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya





Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming SBU Law Alumni Association, Inc. SBU Law Alumni Foundation, Inc. Officers and Trustees A.Y. 2020-2021 ATTY. AVELINO V. CRUZ JUSTICE FRANCISCO P. ACOSTA ATTY. RODOLFO A. SALALIMA ATTY. ROBERTO F. DE LEON ATTY. JEREMY Z. PARULAN Chairman President Vice-Chairman Vice-President Treasurer ATTY. ANTONIO EDUARDO S. ATTY. RENZ J. PAGAYANAN ATTY. EDNA HERRERA-BATACAN ATTY. JONAS L. CABOCHAN ATTY. SOLOMON M. HERMOSURA NACHURA, JR. Assistant Corporate Secretary Trustee Trustee Trustee Corporate Secretary ATTY. ALFREDO C. LIM ATTY. NORBERTO P. MANZANO ATTY. SALVADOR C. MEDIALDEA JUSTICE PABLITO A. PEREZ ATTY. ALFREDO R. ROSAL, JR. Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee ATTY. DOMINADOR D. BUHAIN, JR. DR. JOFFRE M. ALAJAR FR. AELRED NILO, OSB WILMA B. ABELLANOSA MA. FATIMA MACARAEG Trustee Executive Director Spiritual Adviser Secretariat Staff Secretariat Staff 04 SAMUEL B. MACABARE ARCHIE A. ARMELLIGAS ALVIN Y. JOSE BOARD OF ADVISERS Staff Staff Staff JUVYLEN B. FABRO Justice Antonio Eduardo B. Nachura Staff Justice Jose C. Mendoza Justice Jose C. Vitug Justice Bienvenido L. Reyes A y. Enrique D. Perez A y. Hilarion G. Mendosa, Jr. Dean Virgilio B. Jara A y. Rene A.V. Saguisag A y. Rodolfo D. Robles Sec. Arthur P. Tugade Sec. Vitaliano N. Aguirre II

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya Golden Jubilarians BACHELOR OF LAWS 1971 ABRAGAN, ALBERT B. JABSON, DANILO JOSE C. ACOSTA, FRANCISCO P. JARABATA, ARTURO C. AGUIRRE, VITALIANO II N. ALBANO, CESAREO M. MACARAMBON, DAGAROAN O. MAH, PORFERIO E. ANGELES, EMILIO V. BASA, CESAR T. MALIWAT, CRESENCIO I. MARISTELA, DOMINGO JR. B. BERTULFO, NED B. BUSTRIA, BIENVENIDO B. MARTINEZ, POLICARPIO P. MENDOZA, JOSE C. CABATIC, SERAFIN O. CALISO, SERGIO JR. B. NALUPTA, MARIANO JR. R. CAMARA, AMORSOLO C. PONFERRADA, RODOLFO A. RESURRECCION, HENRY R. CANON, ANTONIO B. CATAYONG, CARLITO J. REYES, BIENVENIDO L. CLIMACO, ABELRADO JR. A. RICO, REX G. CURIOSO, NEHEMIAS A. ROSALES, ANTONIO M. DADOLE, MIGUEL P. RUBIO, ROBERTO O. DAVID, EDWARD P. SEÑEREZ, ROY V. ESCUTIN, ANTONIO M. FLORESTA, DORENTINO Z. SERRANO, ALBERTO P. FRANCISCO, EDUARDO E. SORIANO, MIGUEL JR. P. GACRIA, ROGELIO V. GERONIMO, MAMERTO C. TIJAM, NOEL G. GONZALES, ROLANDO L. TOLENTINO, JOSE C. GUERRERO, RIZAL B. TUGADE, ATHUR P. UY, FELIPE G. VALDEZ, DANIEL B. VIACRUSIS, DANTE N. 05

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming 06

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya Silver Jubilarians BACHELOR OF LAWS 1996 ABANTE, FELIX DARREN R. AGBAYANI, CYPRES G. AGUADO, RONALD C. ALCONABA, MARIA ELMIRA A. AMBOY, MYLA GLORIA A. ATAVIADO, NOEL O. BELTRAN, ELAYDA CLARA MARIE T. BROTARLO, EMMANUEL S. CALIP, MONIQUE AURORA M. CANUTO, B MARC A CASA, MA. URSULA CRISTINA S. CINCO-BACTAT, THERESA G. COBARRUBIAS, SUZANNE D. CUDIAMAT, RICHARD G. DAKUDAO, RAYMOND E. DE DIOS, FROILAN A. DIOLA, DEDETTE B. DONALDO, JEROME G. PANTALEON, OLIVER L. ELIZAGA, FLORDELIZA A. PRIMICIAS, MARLYN L. FABULAR, MONA LIZA L. PUNZALAN, PERRY ANTHONY M. FAVIAN, ROBERT D. RADAZA, ALLAN M. FLORES, MARY JANE V. REAL, PARIS G. FORTUNA, CARLO PONTICO C. FRANCO, RONNETTE O. REJUSO, IRENE J. GARCIA, OLIVER OWEN L. REYES, MELISSA A. REYES, MILLICENT N. GO, ERWIN C. RIVERA, NOEL FRANCIS N. GUILLERMO, RONALDO O. ROSALES, LEO L. JIMENEZ, DENNIS DYLAN F. RUBANG, EMMYLOU V. LAYUGAN, DEBORA ANASTACIA T. RUBIO, FRANCIS ALAN A. LUNA, MENELEO JOSE II A. SADULLO, JOHN R. MACASAET, ALLAN NARCISO P. SAGADAL, OMAR L. MANUEL, ANDRES JR. P. SAGISI, MYLENE JOY A. MERCADER, ANN CLAIRE P. SALVATUS-GUERRERO, PERPETUA SOCORRO JOCELYN C. SANTOS, MA. MYLA RAE M. MERCADO, MAILA L. SARMIENTO, WILLIE B. MIRANDA, DAISY A. SIANGHIO, MARIA TERESA S. MOLINA, HUBERT E. SISON, MA. ROWENA M. NABAZA, DENNIS E. ONG, MA. MELINA V. SOLIS, MELEA B. SORIANO, MA. GRACE LECHELLE P. SUBIDO, MA. CECILIA P. SUNTAY, JESUS MANUEL C. TALAO, ROY PHILIPPE R. TAPULAO, ROY JIMAR Z. TIAMSON, ERWIN L. TORRIJOS, RONALD Q. TRIA, HERBERT A. TRINIDAD, MARIANO MIGUEL M. VALENCIA, JOSE B. VALLES, JOSE RONALD V. VASQUEZ, LEAH ANGELI B. VILLA, CATHERINE B. VILLANUEVA, MARIA ZARAH R. YAP, ROMMEL L. YU, LEWIS ZABANAL, LIEZEIL L. 07

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming San Beda College of L Silver aw JUBILARIANS 1971 1996Golden JUBILARIANS San Beda Law Alumni Homecoming 2021 TATAG NG BEDISTA SA HAMON NG PANDEMYA PROGRAM 2:00 pm Registration 3:00 pm 4:00 pm Mass at the Abbey Church of Our Lady of Montserrat 4:30 pm 5:00 pm Picture Taking at the Altar by Batch 5:07 pm Reception Invocation & Special Prayer Atty. Ma. Zarah R. Villanueva-Castro for the COVID-19 Victims Silver Jubilarian (Class 96') Pambansang Awit 5:10 pm Opening Remarks Atty. Avelino V. Cruz Chairman, San Beda Law Alumni 5:13 pm Welcome Remarks Association 5:16 pm Introduction of the Keynote Speaker Cong. Jesus Manuel \"Bong\" C. Suntay Chairman, Law Class ’96 (Silver Jubilarians) Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea 5:21 pm Keynote Speech President Rodrigo Roa Duterte 5:51 pm Republic of the Philippines 6:21 pm Dinner & Entertainment • Video Presentation of the Silver Jubilarians • Silver Jubilarians Presentation • Other videos of the Silver Jubilarians’ Activities Message of Golden Jubilarians Justice Noel G. Tijam President/Representative 6:26 pm Message of Silver Jubilarians Atty. Paris G. Real President, Law Class ‘96 (Silver Jubilarians) 6:31 pm Bedan Law Alumni Awards • Posthumous Award - Chairman Sixto S. Brillantes Jr. (+) • Outstanding Silver Jubilarians - Members of Law Class ‘96 • Life Achievement Awards - Members of Law Class ‘71 7:01 pm Bedan Hymn 7:06 pm Entertainment 08 • Harana sa San Beda (Gov. Oyie Umali's Band). • Song Number by Pokwang • Performance by other ABC 5 Artists

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya PRESIDENT RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE Republic of the Philippines My warmest greetings to the San Beda Law Alumni Association (SBLAA) as it holds its Grand Law Alumni Homecoming. I am deeply honored to join my fellow alumni who have distinguished themselves in the legal profession, especially those who are in public service and continue to commit themselves to the service of our beloved nation. May this event remind all of us to continue espousing Benedictine ideals and values in the work that we do. May we also serve as an inspiration to others in pursuing a life of excellence and genuine service even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. As we gather for this homecoming, let us also honor the memory of our fellow alumni we lost during this pandemic. May their sacrifice inspire all of us to do our part in the fight against COVID-19. Together, let us foster a regime of justice, freedom and equality for the good of all. I wish you a successful event. 09

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming DR. MANUEL V. PANGILINAN Chairman of the Board San Beda University Manila My warmest felicitations to the officers and members of the San Beda Law Alumni Association on the auspicious occasion of its 69th founding anniversary. I am honored to join all the well-wishers of this great Bedan Alumni Association on this milestone event, even during this pandemic. Tonight's celebration is also a tribute to the significant contributions of our College of Law to the development of the legal profession in the country. For the past 73 years, San Beda has produced top caliber lawyers led by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. A number of them have been rendering valuable service to the country. We have every reason to be proud of their achievements as professionals as well as members of society and the global community. May the entire San Beda Law Alumni Association remain steadfast in upholding the values and ideals of the law profession for the good of our country. A lot depends upon your being true to the principles of justice and human dignity. Special Congratulations to the Jubilarians Law Class'71 (Golden) and Law Class '96 (Silver), this year's host class. We especially welcome President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as our guest of honor and speaker, and congratulate all our outstanding jubilarians. Let this gathering be also a special moment to remember those who perished and adversely affected by this pandemic. We will as ONE come out of this global tragedy stronger and better persons. 10

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya RT. REV. FR. AUSTIN P. CADIZ, ORSBEV. FRREV. .AFRL.OAYLOSYISUIUSSMMAA..AA. M. AMRAANRAANN, OASNB , OSB Abbot-Chancellor Rector-President It is with great joy and pride that I welcome you all to the My heartfelt greetings to all Bedans and guests 2021 San Beda Law Alumni Homecoming hosted by this participating in the 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming, year's Silver Jubilarians Law'96 presided by Cong. Bong so meticulously organized by this year's host class – the Suntay and Atty. Paris Real. Silver Jubilarians (Law Class of 1996), amid the COVID- 19 pandemic. Commendable are the organizers led by We are all once again honoured by the virtual participation Congressman Bong Suntay, Atty. Paris Real, Atty. Ronald of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as our keynote Valles, Atty. Zarah Villanueva-Castro and Judge Perry speaker. For sure, we all look forward being as one family Punzalan. in this night of fellowship, camaraderie and recognition, observing all required health protocols amid the trying We especially welcome the virtual participation of time brought about by this pandemic. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to this important Bedan affair . It will be noted that the President has been Congratulations to our golden (Class '71) and silver accepting our invitation every law alumni homecoming for (Class '96) jubilarians for having reached milestones as the past four years, amid his hectic schedule. We are all graduates of our prestigious San Beda College of Law. truly grateful for this. And during this pandemic, we will surely miss the President's presence and active As you all gather for tonight's celebration, either physically participation, but rest assured that we understand his or virtually, I hope you find time to reflect on your limitations given the pandemic. Benedictine ideals and values of peace, work and prayer , as these will be your greatest weapon in conquering the Commendable is the San Beda Law Alumni Association daily challenges that are inevitable in your service to the (SBLAA) ably chaired by Atty. Ave Cruz with Justice Nick Filipino people, especially during this hard time of the Acosta as president, for sustaining this worthwhile pandemic. tradition of fellowship, camaraderie and recognition, even during this trying time. Rest assured that you are all in our prayers, coupled with our very best wishes for you and loved ones. My sincerest congratulations to all our silver (Class '96) and golden (Class '71) jubilarians led by SBLAA President That in all things God may be glorified. Francisco Acosta who will be receiving recognitions for their exemplary service to SBU, country and God. My fervent prayer is for the SBLAA and all SBC Law alumni/ae to be continuously committed to assist our San Beda University to be in step with the times, no matter how challenging it may be. I take the lead in realizing this vision, knowing that the SBLAA is our integral partner in making this dream come true in the near future. Mabuhay, and more power to the San Bed Law Alumni 11 Association!

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming ATTY. AVELINO V. CRUZ Chairman San Beda Law Alumni Association My warmest greetings to all Bedans and guests participating in the 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming hosted by Class of 1996 (Silver Jubilarians) chaired by Congressman Bong Suntay and their Class Prexy Atty. Paris Real. Warm welcome as well to members of Class of 1971 (Golden Jubilarians) led by our very own SBCLAA President Justice Nick Acosta. Like no other in our living memory, this gathering is being held in the midst of a growing atmosphere of negativity and cynicism due to the pandemic. We should therefore be filled with thanksgiving in our hearts for our Heavenly Father willed that this traditional Bedan affair push through against all odds, with an even stronger message of Faith, Hope and Love. Our homecoming theme “Tatag Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya” is very apt to the times. It speaks about the Bedans' continued resilience in facing the multifarious challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, and our commitment to remain strong in fulfilling our respective life mission. Nonetheless, this year's homecoming amid a global crisis should not only be about experiencing once again our unique Bedan fellowship, reminiscing our good old days in the San Beda Law School, and taking pride of our accomplishments. More important, this reunion should be a day of thanksgiving, and a humble reminder that everything we have (wealth, power, authority, achievements, etc) come from Above. Recently, Our Holy Father Pope Francis issued a powerful and an uplifting Dissertation Prayer that we best take to heart. I requested a space for this special prayer in our printed program, to serve as a timely reminder of our need to renew ourselves, deepen our sense of mission and remain faithful. More important, this piece should make us realize once again that all that we have and all that we are is by God's Unending Grace. It is my fervent hope that Pope Francis' beautiful and comforting prayer will leave our aching spirit warmed by its afterglow, enabling us to tread the path to a more meaningful life in service to others, nurturing the road to Enlightenment, and keeping us humble of heart and grounded in the Truth. May our coming together today, be so much more than another treasure trove of happy memories, but a moment of grace, a time to go back once more to our Benedictine roots of ora et labora (pray and work), to see our Creator once more, and live not in fear, but in faith, love and hope. 12 That in all things God may be glorified!

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya JUSTICE FRANCISCO P. ACOSTA President San Beda Law Alumni Association Dear fellow Jubilarians, Bedans and friends, Welcome to the 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming, or should we say, HOPEcoming! Indeed, this year's gathering of Bedans is far different from the ones we had prior to the pandemic. While we all long to be together physically, the present challenges brought about by the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic have prevented us from really seeing each other, and expressing outwardly our brotherly and sisterly love for one another. Nonetheless, it is that undying Bedan spirit in our hearts that keeps us together in this event even amid the turbulent times. Allow me to commend Law Class of 1996 led by Congressman Bong Suntay , Atty. Paris Real and other active jubilarians for making this year's homecoming a reality amid the multifarious limitations that go with the preparations for this important Bedan event. This year's host class deserves our Bedan Community's Special Salute for beating all odds! Further, I am one with the board of trustees and members of the SBC Law Alumni Association and the SBC Law Alumni Foundation in thanking Class 1996 for the valued substantial help in raising funds for the renovation of our College of Law administration office and faculty room. Without your support, we would have difficulty responding positively to this call for assistance from our Law school. At this point, I congratulate my Class of 1971 for being this year's Golden Jubilarians and recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Awards. We are one in expressing gratitude to our dear San Beda College, now a University, for all that it has been to us through good and hard times. We will all be forever grateful to Bedan Education. As we gather tonight for our homecoming, let us discuss how we can all further assist Bedan Education to thrive especially during the challenging years ahead . We keep our Faith and remain hopeful that our God has bigger and better plans for all of the human race. That in all things God may be glorified! 13

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming CONG. JESUS MANUEL \"BONG\" C. SUNTAY Chairman, Law Class ‘96 (Silver Jubilarians) My wannest greetings to the San Beda University College of Law Alumni association as we celebrate our Annual Homecoming and Reunion. I would also like to wholeheartedly congratulate the Class of r961 who are celebrating their Diamond Jubilee; the class of 1971 on their Golden Jubilee; the Ruby Jubilee of Class 1981; and to my batchmates, batch 1996, on our Silver Jubilee! Since its foundation in 1948, San Beda has produced outstanding lawyers who have established. themselves as successful individuals not only in the field of law,. but also in politics, government services, as well as in business. Our Alumni has brought recognition to our institution, they have shown us the importance of having a clear conscience and the courage to speak the truth even if it may create conflict or dissent. During these hying times brought about by the Covid-19 Pandemic, we have seen Bedans all over the country take critical roles to leverage their unique strengths and talents in order to help our fellow Filipinos and our nation to overcome the crisis we are currently facing. To them we pray for strength, perseverance and protection so that they may continue to be of service. As men and women of law, we possess the principle of truth, passion for justice, and a vision to stand firm. Guided by humility and compassion, we will rise against injustice and oppression and forever endeavour the greatness of our nation. I am beyond proud to be part of this commendable university that continues to produce excellent and outstanding Filipinos! Thank you. Mabuhay, San Beda! 14

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya ATTY. PARIS G. REAL President, Law Class ‘96 (Silver Jubilarians) \"TATAG NG BEDISTA SA HAMON NG PANDEMYA.” Congratulations to our Jubilarians for rising to the occasion; beating the odds; and successfully holding our First Ever Virtual Law Alumni Homecoming with nothing in our hearts but steadfast faith in God; and utmost trust in our Bedans' indomitable spirits. Indeed, with God, all things are possible! We are all alive and well, because God wills it. We have reached this far in light of the Love, Compassion and Grace of God. As Fully Human, Wholly Christian and Truly Filipino Lawyers, let us continue to use our God-given resources to Thank and Praise HIM, by selflessly helping our less fortunate brothers and sisters, especially, during these very trying times. As the Almighty God puts it: \"To whom much is given, much is desired;\" and \"What you do to the least of My Brethen, you do it for Me.\" In this regard, we sincerely thank our Alma Mater and beloved Professors, for imparting us their character and wisdom; and teaching us ORA ET LABORA, which correctly guided us through the years. As One Bedan Family: We Pray as One; We Sing as One; We Dance as One; We Act as One; We Heal as One; and together, We Celebrate our Grand Alumni Homecoming as One. God Bless us all! 15

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming ATTY. DOMINADOR D. BUHAIN President San Beda University Alumni Association The San Beda University Alumni Association (SBUAA) is one with the San Beda Law Alumni Association, our SBU College of Law, the enviable host class- Silver Jubilarians (Law Class of 1996) and the Golden Jubilarians(Law Class of 1971) of our dear SBLAA President Justice Francisco Acosta in welcoming all to the virtual 2021 San Beda Law Alumni Homecoming. Special mention to the selfless leadership of Atty. Paris Real and Congressman Bong Suntay of Law Class of 1996 who kept alive this important Bedan event even during this trying time of COVID-19 with its more deadly variants. Amid the pandemic, this annual tradition has stayed alive even during this trying time , as our way of staying in touch with each other after being quarantined for a long period, and still remembering the exemplary achievements of our beloved jubilarians who all created footprints of excellence in the continuing saga of our College of Law. It is my hope that our San Beda Law School, will continue in its journey to a wider field of accomplishments with or without the pandemic not so much for its own glory but more so for the good of the nation and the global community. Our coming together in our homecoming even virtually should instill great pride in our Alma Mater and inspire our graduates to serve our country, and glorify God by giving their best for whatever they are capable of sharing especially during these challenging times. Go San Beda fight as we conquer as ONE this health crisis, remaining hopeful of the future with our Almighty Father serving as our guide and protector. 16

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya ATTY. MARCIANO G. DELSON Dean San Beda College of Law Peace and God's bountiful graces be with you, and loved ones! Pride in our San Beda Law school is an inspiring sentiment shared by all Bedans who have experienced law education in our 121-year old Benedictine institution. I have to commend our San Beda Law Alumni Association and the Jubilarians for keeping alive that sense of bonding with our Alma Mater, and having a stake in all our University's and alumni/ae's achievements through this annual law homecoming being held even during this pandemic. Thank you as well to this year's host class Law '96 (Silver Jubilarians) for all the preparations for this first “hybrid” homecoming celebration due to the pandemic. We warmly welcome President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to this important event where he will once again be our guest of honor and speaker. May this yearly gathering of Bedan law alumni/ae be a thanksgiving to our Almighty Father for all our fulfilled wishes and milestones that we have carried even during this most disturbing time. That in all things God may be glorified! 17

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya A 2021 Homecoming Thanksgiving By Joffre M. Alajar This year's Law Alumni Homecoming hosted by Class of 1996 (Silver Jubilarians) will go down memory lane for its many firsts. This is the first homecoming event conducted virtually and with less than a hundred participants in physical attendance, in compliance with the government's restrictions on social gatherings. It is also the first homecoming during this pandemic after the highly successful traditional grand alumni reunion held in November 9, 2019. Last year, the Class of 1995 decided not to organize the traditional reunion, as it was at the height of the pandemic and vaccines then were not yet in sight. It is also the first time that this much anticipated law gathering is held in the San Beda University campus. Indeed, this global crisis drastically changed lives and even the way social events are conducted. Gladly, the SBC Law Alumni Association together with the enviable Silver Jubilarians (Class '96) took the risk of organizing the 2021 Alumni Homecoming with its many concomitant challenges given the trying times. Tonight, the Bedan Community pays tribute to this great Class for the extraordinary effort of producing this important Bedan event which initially many thought would not be realized. Special commendation goes to Congressman Bong Suntay, Chairman of the 2021 Silver Jubilarians; Atty. Paris Real, President, of Law Class '96; Atty. Ronald Valles; Atty. Zarah Villanueva-Castro; Judge Perry Punzalan; Sr. Asst. Provincial Prosec. Daisy Miranda- Gorospe; Judge Emmylou Rubang- 18 M a n g a s a r ; A t t y. M i l l i c e n t R e y e s ; A t t y. Emmanuel Brotario; Atty. Flordeliz Elizaga;

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya have passed through the great halls of the San Beda College of Law gather for another meaningful celebration of 69 fruitful years of the San Beda Law Alumni Association and the fourth homecoming under the San Beda University banner. Indeed, a milestone year calls for a sober yet meaningful celebration befitting a premiere institution that has distinguished itself as an outstanding school of law, as gleaned from the creditable performance of Bedan candidates in the bar exams not to mention the significant number of Bedan greats in the law profession here and abroad. Atty. Hubert Molina; Atty. Liezeil Zabanal; 19 Atty. Andres Manuel, Jr., and Atty. Maria Teresa Sianghio-Ubano. Without this formidable group, this 2021 law alumni event would not have pushed through anew. Class 1996's chosen homecoming theme “Tatag Bedista sa Panahon ng Pandemya” is very timely as it speaks much of the strong character of Bedans in facing insurmountable challenges like the pandemic, challenging everyone to rise above this global crisis, beckoning well with our very own Bedan Family. Love of country and genuine service to fellow beings in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic are innately Bedan, and these have been engraved in our minds and hearts during years of stay in San Beda. Our Bedan Education where we have been inculcated the Benedictine core values of pray and work (Ora et Labora) have been our most effective weapon in conquering the challenges of the time Today, the San Beda University College of Law remains an acknowledged leader in law education in the Philippines, producing graduates who are “fully human, wholly Christian, truly Filipino and globally competitive”. It has been 73 glorious years, and Bedans who

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming President Rodrigo Roa Duterte who is on his men and women offered inspiring examples of last year in office, serves as keynote speaker. vision, leadership, persistence and success. Bedans also take this rare opportunity to honor During this alumni gathering filled with the Benedictine monks, lay administrators, thanksgiving, the Bedan community expresses faculty members and service personnel who have unbounded gratitude to the 2021 Silver faithfully built up the College of Law, thus, fully Jubilarians (Law Class of 1996) and the SBC accomplishing the University's primary mission Law Alumni Association (SBLAA) for helping of Benedictine Christian Education. chart the future of San Beda University Law School. Specifically, the Bedan community During the program, it is fitting that the Bedan acknowledges the 2.5 Million Pesos donation of Community pays a grand salute to the late the SBLAA and Class of 1996 for the much needed COMELEC Chairman and Past President of the renovation of the law school administration office SBC Law Alumni Association Atty. Sixto S. and faculty room. Brillantes, Jr. This exemplary Bedan had left a significant mark in the life of the nation thus, a As we move forward to the uncertain future, even special posthumous award is to be presented to as we all learn to live with the COVID-19, it is him as our way of thanking him for all that he had hoped that the valued lessons of the past as well been to San Beda and the entire Filipino nation. as the great strengths and breath of this great learning institution will enable Bedan Education to This year's Life Achievement Award goes to remain faithful to its mission of Christian and members of Law Class '71(Golden Jubilarians) Benedictine education amid the turbulent times. while Outstanding Jubilarians are members of Law Class '96. These exemplary Bedans have Meanwhile, let this be a meaningful and collectively advanced causes to improve the lives memorable evening with the Law Class of 1996 of the Filipinos and transform societies across the (Silver Jubilarians) and Law Class of 1971 nation. They have shown courage and (Golden Jubilarians) leading in this special impassioned insistence on making the Filipino celebration of the Bedan triumphant spirit of Ora at nation better, more progressive and more Labora, capped in tonight's homecoming theme equitable for everyone. Undeniably, these great “Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya. 20

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya AT LIFE'S CUSP, A SUMMING-UP OF LIFE by Atty. R. A. Salalima A.B., Philo '69; LAW '73 HOW DO WE MEASURE the worth of a man? By Father Bernardo Perez, O.S.B., attempted at what value-factors must we measure him? Did answering his existential questions above. He wrote: or does he live or lead a meaningful life? What “Life is meaningful when one lives not for one's self but is a meaningful life? These I ask of the Bedan lawyers, for something greater, something beyond one's self, particularly the Jubilarians, on the occasion of our something transcending one's own self – (like) one's 2021 Bedan Law Homecoming/Reunion. Those family, one's community, one's country, an ideal, a Bedans who are yet young and on the rise, those who cause, a mission, or God. To live for something are at the cusp of life – that is, at the peak of their beyond oneself is to devote one's life for it, to sacrifice ascent, beyond which life or activity or the peak point oneself for it, or be willing to die for it. In other words, to starts descent, and those on the wane. seek the good, the fulfillment, or the salvation of others, whatever the cost.” About twenty years ago, a Benedictine monk, Father Rector Bernardo Ma. Perez, existentially wrote: The Bedan lawyers have the talents and the skills, the “When one attempts a summing-up of one's life, one potentials and capacities which are not shared by aims to answer the questions: What is the meaning of ordinary men. Because you are special, you may feel my life? Or the question might be paraphrased: Does that you do not fit in this non-perfect world, as all my life have any meaning? The first (question) seeks worlds are not. That said, you were thus born to make an answer; the second betrays distress.” our world better than when you found it. Always look for the best of others, and give them the best you have. During the carefree days of our boyhood, San Beda already introduced us to what meaningful life is, albeit Indeed, nothing is more ennobling than serving a theoretically, when repeatedly we sung our Alma cause greater than one's self. To take a bullet for love Mater Hymn which ends thus: “Bring out the of others, to be humane more than just human, is more challenges, we'll win them all; And fear neither fire nor than an ennobling activity. It is a great sacrifice, an blood; Bedans will answer the clarion call for San ACHIEVEMENT – the measure of a great man and a Beda, our Country, and God.” great life. What happened since then, and in our adulthood? The foregoing brings to mind “Man in the Chair,” a Have we lived up and led a meaningful life movie with Christopher Plummer as lead. In the conformably with the clarion call of our Alma Mater picture was an agitated and restless young man in song? Do our lives have any meaning at all? search for the meaning of his life and his “self”. He felt unfulfilled, his life an empty void. Plummer, the Many of us answered the call of public service during observant old man in the chair, approached the young the term of the current administration. Permit me then man and, with concern, asked: Are you fulfilled? Do to recall for you the apt words of the great nationalist you feel fulfilled? He added: “Young man, remember – Claro M. Recto on service to Country and People, there is a difference between activity and thus: “Those in the civil service and the government ACHIEVEMENT!” bureaucracy must rededicate themselves to the public welfare, and hold as their most valued THE HIGHER LIFE profession the trust of the people. They must be jealous in the protection of the rights and privileges of We may not be perfect. But life is all about fidelity to their countrymen, never lending themselves to the something higher – to ideals such as truth and circumvention of our laws for the benefits of aliens. principle, to whose call all men must march, sacrifice, Only a nationalist administration, dedicated to the even die for. vindication of national honor and dignity can fully appreciate and reward integrity and merit in 21 government service.” Keep well, GOD BLESS USALL!

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming SIXTO SERRANO BRILLANTES, JR. (Ll.B. '65 Cum Laude and Class Valedictorian) A Final Salute to an Outstanding Bedan by Joffre M. Alajar What can the San Beda Law Alumni Association (SBLAA) say when it loses its highly regarded Past President and one of San Beda's outstanding sons ( Ll.B.'65) who left behind deep and lasting contributions to the Filipino nation? Words are not enough to comfort our grieving hearts on the passing on to eternal life of our beloved Atty. Sixto “Boy” Brillantes on August 11, 2020. In life, he had achieved much to accomplish his life mission. A consummate Bedan leader—intelligent, dedicated, honorable, truly Filipino, and an exemplar for generations of students and public servants. Chairman Boy, as he was fondly referred to by colleagues and friends was an acknowledged authority on Philippine election laws. He became Chairman of the Commission on Elections from 2011 to 2016. It was also the same position held with distinction by his father and namesake. Chairman Boy was highly admired and praised as a reformer of the Philippine electoral system. Undoubtedly, he made a big difference in this field considering the quality of his legal education and creditable work performance. With his honorable lineage, he had what it takes to succeed. Chairman Boy would be remembered for his mastery of the Philippine election code. He battled corruption scandals and poor public perception of this election agency. Chairman Boy was the first President of the SBLAA during its incorporation in 1998-2002. What the SBLAA is today, it owes to the significant years of exemplary works of Atty. Boy. It was a life dedicated to service, standards of excellence, all for the greater glory of God. In his loving memory, the board of trustees of the San Beda Law Alumni Association honors Atty. Sixto Serrano Brillantes, Jr. with a POSTHUMOUS AWARD as a final salute to this outstanding Bedan who left a great legacy to San Beda University and the Filipino nation. It is hoped that many generations of Filipinos will continue to emulate his selfless life of service to country and God. For members of the Bedan family, Sixto Brillantes, Jr. will forever be the embodiment of all that is noble and distinctive about being a Bedan. A true son of Saint Benedict, one whose very presence roars those words this world ought to hear more often-PAX! 22 May his beautiful Bedan soul rest in peace.

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya POWER HOUSE '71 No less than the San Beda Law Alumni magazine 2016. He was also conferred a degree in Doctor of described the San Beda Law Class 1971. The Humanities, Honoris Causa by the University of Saint Powerhouse '71. This is why and how the class Anthony in 2018. At present, Justice Noel sits as Regular earned this title. Member of the Judicial and Bar Council representing the academe. Although President Rodrigo Roa Duterte graduated from San Beda Law in 1972, he started his first year law in San Justice Noel has been married to his wife, Cynthia for Beda with members of Class '71 and calls members of forty-nine years. They have three children-Michael, Paul, Class '71, “my classmates”. and Maria Cecilia – and has six grandchildren – Michaela, Gabriel Noel, Christina Nicole, Christina Alexa, Three became Cabinet members, three Supreme Court Christelle Natalia, and Noel Thomas. Justices, four Court of Appeals Justices, one Sandiganbayan Justice, one Ambassador, NLRC The class third honor, Judge Alberto Serrano (Cum Commissioner, two Congressmen, Two Assemblyman, Laude), became the Executive RTC Judge of Calamba, three Undersecretaries, one vice governor, two mayor, Laguna. Judge Serrano is the only member of the class three JBC members, Judicial Integrity Board, a State of who landed on the top twenty (No. 14) in the 1971 Bar New York Law Judge, 16 RTC Judges, one MTC Judge, Exam . He was a Law Professor at San Beda University one Provincial Board Member, prosecutors, successful law College of Law for a long time up to until his death in 2019. practitioners, law professors and lecturers, government officials and businessmen. The class fourth honor, Secretary Arthur P. Tugade (Cum Laude), is the current Secretary of the Department of The class valedictorian, former Secretary Vitaliano Transportation and one of the masterminds of the Build Aguirre II (Cum Laude), was appointed by our classmate Build Build Program of the administration of Pres. Rodrigo in the early years of law school, President Rodrigo Roa Roa Duterte, who calls Sec. Tugade his billionaire Duterte, as Secretary of Justice. Secretary Aguirre is now a classmate. He is the founder of Perry Group of Commissioner, the Vice-Chairman and Executive Director Companies, a family business dealing in logistics, fuel, real of the National Police Commission. estate, travel, investments, etc. Class '71 has rallied for Secretary Art to run for Senator. Justice Noel Gimenez Tijam, who was the class salutatorian with cum laude honors climbed the judicial The class fifth honor, Francisco Paredes Acosta, was ladder by becoming a Regional Trial Court Judge assigned appointed by Pres. Gloria Magapagal-Aroyo as to Quezon City in 1994, a Court of Appeals Justice in 2003, Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals in 2006. Shortly and Supreme Court Justice in 2017. Because of his after his retirement as Associate Justice of the Court of competence and exemplary service, he was selected as Appeals in 2017, he was appointed by Pres. Rodrigo Roa Bar Examiner in Legal Ethics in 2009 and Remedial Law in Duterte as Chair of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas 23 President Justice Justice Atty. Vitaliano Aguirre II Justice Sec. Arthur P. Tugade Rodrigo Roa Duterte Francisco P. Acosta Noel G. Tijam Bienvenido L. Reyes

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Justice Justice Judge The First Filipino and the only Bedan who became a State Jose Catral Mendoza Rodolfo Ponferrada Ned Bertulfo Law Judge of the State of New York is a member of Class '71, Judge Ned Bertulfo, who hails from Masbate. He is a with the rank of a Cabinet Secretary. He is the President of member of New York State Bar Association. the San Beda University Law Alumni Association. He was a Law Professor at San Beda University College of Law. The following served as Presiding Judges of the Regional He was a Bar Examiner in 2008 on Legal Ethics and in Trial Court: 2018 on Labor Laws. Judge Dante N. Viacrucis, RTC Agusan del Sur, the 2011 Never been in the history of the Supreme Court and San Judicial Excellence Awardee, retired in 2013. He was the Beda Law that three classmates (Justices Bienvenido former mayor of Palompon, Leyte. Reyes, Jose Catral Mendoza, Noel Jimenez Tijam) were sitting justices of the Supreme Court at the same time, all Judge Domingo B. Maristela, Jr., RTC of Cataingan, members of San Beda College of Law Class 1971. Masbate, Branch 49. Prior to his appointment as Judge, he was with Anti-Organized Crime Division for three years as Supreme Court Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Director 1V. He was also a State Prosecutor with the Bienvenido L. Reyes, is known as the Justice who Department of Justice and was with the National Bureau of administered the Oath of Office of incoming President Investigation (NBI) for 17 years as Supervising Agent. Rodrigo Roa Duterte. Justice Boji Reyes started as Upon his retirement from the government, he formed a law Regional Trial Court Judge of Malabon and was appointed firm with his classmates. by Pres. Joseph Estrada Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals and was elevated to the Supreme Court as Judge Cresencio I. Maliwat was appointed RTC Judge, Associate Justice by Pre. Benigno S. Aquino III. Santiago City, Isabela by Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III in 2012. Supreme Court Associate Justice Jose Catral Mendoza started as Regional Trial Court Judge of Laguna and later Judge Policarpio Martinez, RTC of Candon City, Ilocos transferred as Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court in Sur, Branch 71. He is currently the Legal Counsel for the Quezon City. He was appointed Associate Justice of the City of Candon, Ilocos Sur. Court of Appeals in 2003 and in 2010, he was appointed the 168th Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. Shortly Zambales RTC Judge Dorentino Z. Floresta of after his retirement as Associate Justice of the Supreme Zambales was the recipient of the Prosecutor of the Court, Justice Bambit Mendoza was appointed member Philippines Award when he was the Provincial Prosecutor of The Judicial and Bar Council, representing Retired of Zambales. Supreme Court Justices. Judge Albert B. Abragan, retired as Regional Trial Court Three members of San Beda Law Class '71 sit as Presiding Judge of Lanao del Norte, Iligan City, Branch 4. members of the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC). They are Ex-Supreme Court Justice Jose C. Mendoza, Ex- Judge Porferio E. Mah was the Presiding Judge Regional Supreme Court Justice Noel J. Tijam and Former RTC Trial Court, Branch 8, Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte Judge Toribio E. Ilao, Jr. and later became the Executive Judge. Prior to his appointment as RTC Judge, he was the City Prosecutor of Justice Rodolfo Ponferrada was appointed Associate Dagupan City. Presently, he is a Board member of Food Justice of Sandiganbayan in 2004. Shortly after his Terminal, Inc. He is also engaged in farming in his retirement from Sandiganbayan, he was appointed hometown, Rizal, Zamboanga del Norte. He served as member of the Judicial Integrity Board (JIB) of the member of the Sanggunian Panlalawigan. Before he Supreme Court. Justice Ponferrada also served as joined government service, he served as president and Regional Trial Court Judge of Manila, Branch 54. He was a manager of the Rural Bank of Rizal, Inc. Law Professor at San Beda University College of Law. Judge Antonio Rosales retired Regional Trial Court In 2004, Judge Toribio E. Ilao, Jr. became the Presiding Presiding Judge of Manila, Branch 52 . He is former RTC Judge of Roxas, Oriental, Mindoro. He is still practicing law Judge of Regional Trial Court, Branch 52 of Puerto in his hometown, Calaca, Batangas. Princesa City and Palawan. He later became Regional Apart from being a Regional Trial Court Judge of Negros Occidental, Branch 60, Judge Renado D. Munez was law 24 Trial Court Judge in Taguig City. He was appointed in 2016 professor, lecturer and reviewer in various colleges and and re-appointed on 2020, member of the Judicial and Bar universities in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. After his retirement from the judiciary, he continued to teach law in Council (JBC) representing the private sector. various colleges and universities in Iloilio City. Judge Rolando Balgos, MTC, Hinigaran, Negros Occidental.

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya Judge Emelio V. Angeles. Francisco. He is the No. 1 Nominee of the KABAKA Partylist. With the Legislature : Atty. Antonio M. Escutin worked at Land Registration Congressman Mariano R. Nalupta, Jr., 8th Congress, Administration as Register of Deeds of Lipa, Batangas. He representing the 2nd District of Ilocos Norte from 1988- is now residing in United States of America. 1992. He also served as Vice Governor of Ilocos Norte for three terms from 1992-2001. Cong. Nalupta died of heart Atty. Daniel B. Valdez authored the law book entitled “ attack at age 69. Subject Index of the Local Government Code (R.A.7160). He was a senior lawyer in the legal department of Assemblyman Rogelio Garcia represented South Philippine National Bank (PNB) until he retired. After Cotabato in the Philippine National Assembly. He is the retirement from PNB, he was Secretary of the City Council former President of PDP-Laban. Assemblyman Garcia of Taguig. also served as Undersecretary – Department of Labor under Labor Secretary Franklin Drilon. Presently, he is a Atty. Cesar M. Albano is a Commissioner for the City of member of the Board of Directors of Development Bank of Latrop, State of California. He started his law practice with the Philippines (DBP). classmates as partners and then migrated to USA. Ambassador Roy Villareal Señeres became Atty. Henry Resurreccion retired from the Bureau of Congressman representing the Partylist of OFW Family Customs where he served as the Chief, Entry Processing Party. Before his untimely death in 2016, he filed his Division, Port of Manila. candidacy for President of the Philippines but later withdrew three days before his death. He served as Atty. Felipe Uy was a law practitioner in Iloilo before he Ambassador to UAE. Ambassador Señeres also served as was appointed Labor Arbiter and served as such until his the Chairman of National Labor Relations Commission demise. (NLRC). Atty. Mamerto Geronimo was with Quisumbing Law The late Congressman Bienvenido Marquez was first Office and later migrated to Canada. elected to the National Assembly in 1984. He became the Deputy Minister of the Department of Environmental and The late Fiscal Danilo Jabson retired as Assistant Natural Resources. He became the Mayor of his Prosecutor for the Province of Rizal. hometown, Padre Burgos, Quezon. Later, he was elected Congressman representing the 3th Congressional District The late Rizal Guerrero worked at Movie and Television of Quezon from 1987-1992. He started the Lex Fraternity Review and Classification Board. which later split into Lex Talionis and Lex Leonum. Atty. Manny Manlapaz retired from Department of In 2020, Usec. Sergio R. Calizo, Jr. was appointed Environmental and Natural Resources as Regional Chairman of the Board of Pardons and Parole with the rank Technical Director for Lands. of Undersecretary - Department of Justice. He is a retired Supervising Probation Officer of San Francisco, California, Atty. Antonio B. Cannon was a law practitioner and and was a managing partner of the law firm, Calizo Millares successful businessman. Maristela Madrid and Associates. Atty. Serafin O. Cabatic, a CPA-Lawyer, resides in Atty. Renato D. Padilla is a former Undersecretary of California and retired from San Mateo County Assessor's Department of Agrarian Relation (DAR) and Acting Office as Auditor/Appraiser. Secretary of DAR. Presently he is the General Manager of Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). Atty. Cesar Basa was connected with Philippine National Bank. Atty. Rex G. Rico formed the law firm Rico and Associates with lawyers all from San Beda University College of Law. Nehemias A. Curioso resides in California. He is one of the more successful litigation law practitioners among members of Class 1971 and considered the Atty. Bienvenido Bustria…… litigation lawyer of the Class. 25 Atty. Amorsolo V. Camara at one time formed a law firm with classmates as partners, Camara Serrano Calizo Law Judge Judge Offices, which later became Camara Rosales Tolentino Dante N. Viacrucis Cresencio I. Maliwat and Associates. Atty. Camara became one of the most sought practicing lawyers until his death in 2017. Another classmate who continues to enjoy a successful law practice up to the present time is Atty. Eduardo E.

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Cong. Jesus Manuel \"Bong\" C. Suntay Atty. Paris Real Atty. Ronald Valles Atty. Zarah Villanueva-Castro Judge Perry Punzalan Chairman of the 2021 Silver Jubilarians President, of Law Class '96 Sr. Asst. Provincial Prosec. Judge Emmylou Rubang-Mangasar Atty. Millicent Reyes Atty. Emmanuel Brotario Atty. Flordeliz Elizaga Daisy Miranda-Gorospe Atty. Hubert Molina Atty. Liezeil Zabanal Atty. Andres Manuel, Jr. Atty. Maria Teresa Sianghio-Ubano SAN BEDA COLLEGE OF LAW Batch 1996: SILVER HARVEST OF THE SILVER JUBILARIANS by Judge Perry Anthony M. Punzalan Municipal Trial Court Bustos, Bulacan You reap what you sow --- an old adage most in government sector litigation and four in private sector commonly used but definitely holds so much truth. litigation overseas. Everything starts somewhere, in our case what was planted in us from the time we were mere aspiring lawyers It may not be much and we know there's still so much more to the time we take the grueling Bar exams truly, is that we can do and deliver. For now just let the produce we seed that flourished into getting our names end up in the made speak for itself and we're not stopping, not yet. Sadly, list of successful Bar passers. And it doesn't stop there. though, that not all of the 76 members of our batch made it That ATTY title and being a San Beda College of Law to our silver celebration, as two of our members have gone alumnus bear significant weight entirely. ahead of us during the early years of our careers. Still we share our success and achievements with them. Today as we trace back the culmination of our journey as law students of San Beda, we realized how much it has As the year's theme goes: Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng molded us into the persons we are now, with the innate Pandemya, we stay steadfast amidst the struggles of the desire to be of service to many in numerous different ways current pandemic. We all look back where we all started, and avenues and carrying out the vision to fulfill the harvest the yield of our hard work and move to pay it mission we've set from the beginning of our journey. forward. Here's to another 25 years! Equipped with the knowledge and wisdom taught by San While we look forward to another 25 years, we leave you Beda College of Law, Batch '96 has fruitfully occupied with a little number trivia here: positions in both the government and private sector. So far majority are engaged in Private Sector Litigation; five in Consider these numbers: 25 & 52; 69 & 96 Judiciary posts in Regional, Metropolitan and Municipal Trial Courts; three in government prosecutor service; three Batch '52 (1st batch of SBC law) is celebrating 69 years members in the House of Representatives; two elected and Batch 96 is celebrating 25 years! local officials; four in government corporate service; six in 26 private corporate sector; three in private business sector; That in all things, God may be glorified! three in private sector overseas; two in the academe; one

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya by Paris G. Real I was caught by surprise went back. Thus, by April 2, 2020, I was able to draft a when the government total of twenty pleadings. I felt gratified that I awarded issued Republic Act No. myself by watching some movies on Netflix. Lo! My wife 11469 on March 24, 2020 and I were hooked by the heart thumping \"Prison Break.” which placed the entire In fact, we lost sleep for many nights just so we could Philippines under a finish watching the never-ending saga of “Prison Break.” National State of After we finished “Prison Break”, we were so exhausted Emergency. Just like other working individuals, I did not that we promised ourselves never to watch again any know what to do as virtual prisoner in my own house. As movies with episodes! the days went by, I felt very useless and depressed. Hence, I thought that I had to do something in order to During the lockdown, I re-activated my Facebook keep my sanity. Account and tried to channel my energy on something else. I saw on FB that Netizens (including government On March 16, 2020, I started to prepare some pleadings officials) were debating about their supposed rights and for my clients. However, and no matter how I tried, I duties under the Bayanihan to Heal As One Act (RA simply could not finish them at my usual fast rate. The 11469) and its Guidelines. My altruistic conscience motivation to do my legal works swiftly, was not there. In pricked me to the hilt. As a lawyer, I felt that I cannot fact, it took me four dragging days to finish a simple simply sit back and watch the confused people interpret Counter-Affidavit which I could very well finish in one the laws the way they wanted them interpreted. Hence, I sitting before the lockdown. Clearly, stupor prevented decided to interpret the laws for them. To do this, I my usual \"adrenalin rush\" to flow. I was terribly dejected carefully and diligently studied all emergency laws and and aghast about my helpless situation. guidelines, so I could render the correct legal opinions to the lost netizens. Thank God, He heard my prayers. After I finally finished the Counter-Affidavit, my urge to prepare more pleadings On March 28, 2020, I wrote my first ever Legal Opinion on 27

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming FB entitled, “The Other Side of the Coin.” This was in save us from the damnation of COVID-19. No One. answer to some questions from my high school Nothing on earth can beat the pandemic, except GOD. classmates on whether it was legal to disclose the Hence, the need for all of us to repent and pray. identities of COVID-19 positive patients even without court order or waiver of the medical data confidentiality During the lockdown, I also realized that we are all (as required by the Data Privacy Act and R.A. No. \"primus inter pares\" or first among equals. Rich and 11332). Thereafter, questions poured in one (1) after the poor, we are all confused prisoners trying to escape from other that by May 10, 2020, I was able to prepare thirty- our cages, with much futility. In order to survive, we have two (32) Legal Opinions on FB, for the: poor, middle to pray daily, eat nutritious food and do some exercises to class, OFWs, Senior Citizens, business owners, boost our immune system. politicians, and even those coming from my fellow lawyers. The life of a \"Retiree\" is difficult. Thanks to the lockdown. It has given us a glimpse of what kind of life awaits us In view of my \"COVID-19 Free Legal Tik Tok\", I practically during retirement. became the most sought after \"Legal Expert\" on the so- called COVID-19 Emergency Laws. As a result, some If there is any consolation, the lockdown has brought me quarters whom I helped through my Legal Opinions much closer to my family and online friends. I connected (including a public official from the North), could not with my loved ones more often, unlike before the contain their gladness that they called me a \"Henyo.\" lockdown. At home, we started to pray together as one Other satisfied Netizens even went to the extent of family. The lockdown has deepened my love and faith in asking me to run for public office on the next elections. GOD. I came to the realization that we have to offer our Ha. Ha. I understood them quite perfectly. I thought, time, talents and treasures to God and share them with happiness had gotten the better of those people due to others, for us to become better individuals. We have to their exasperating situations. Hence, their incredible do such THINGS RIGHT NOW because tomorrow may request. never come. On Easter Sunday, I launched the \"BAYANIHAN After the pandemic, the earth shall truly be a different SPIRITUALITY\" through the “Modified Tik Tok for the place to live in. I expect that there will be recessions, Lord (MTL) Challenge”. The MTL Challenge is intended closures of businesses and widespread depression. for Netizens to offer any form of Prayer to God for the: Despite the crises, however, I still believe in the protection of frontliners and their families from COVID- indomitable spirit of the Filipinos. We, certainly, shall rise 19, and the eradication of the Corona Virus from the face up against the challenges of COVID-19 to face the of the earth. I called those who accepted the MTL uncertainties of the future. With our fashionable PPEs, Challenge, as \"Virtual Heroes\" for boosting the morale of masks and gloves to protect us against the virus, coupled the frontliners through their uplifting Songs and other with our new found love of God, we shall definitely go Prayerful Renditions. Indeed, “One does not have to fly back to our normal lives (more united and much stronger like Superman to be a Hero!” than ever before). Playing a “Real Hero” during the lockdown was very “Together, our World shall Heal as One.\" difficult at the same time challenging. Due to limited mobility, I was only able to help a handful of individuals by way of some financial assistance. These included some people in San Jacinto, Masbate, Estancia, Iloilo and in Quezon City, and some cash donations for the purchase of PPEs and other medical supplies for our frontliners. The lockdown has taught me a lot of humbling lessons in life. In my virtual prison cell at home, I realized that money, power and prestige have become insignificant. Above all, GOD should be the source of our strength. With so many deaths and exponential afflictions all over the world, I believe that He and His miracles alone can 28

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya My Legal Battles & Triumphs by Judge Emmylou V. Rubang-Mangasar Becoming a lawyer has always been my childhood dream. As far as I can remember, I have been consciously and unconsciously dreaming of it since I was in grade school. And this dream was inspired by no less than my late Papa who inculcated and molded in me the mindset of a lawyer even at a young age. But obtaining the title ATTY. was never easy. The road was rough and bumpy. In fact, when I was on my 4th year, I thought that I won't be able to join my classmates and graduate that year since I almost took a leave of absence. It was at that time when Papa was diagnosed to have a brain tumor and the devastating news really took our family off guard and drained us emotionally, psychologically and financially. He underwent the knife twice since his hydrocephalus had to be managed first before the tumor could be taken out. But some good things really never last because despite his successful operation and being back in shape in no time, his brain tumor recurred with a vengeance after several months– this time it is malignant. But, I'm still thankful to God for Papa was still with us during my graduation in 1996 though he was not with us anymore when I passed the BAR and took my oath in 1997. My journey in the legal profession has been a very fruitful one. From a Municipal Administrator of Candon, I went on to become a Branch Clerk of Court, then a Public Attorney then the First Chief City Prosecutor of Candon in 2002, a position I held for almost 18 years. Occupying the topmost position in the city prosecution office of Candon is no easy feat. In fact, the prestigious office came with RTC Branch 8 – FC, Candon City, Ilocos Sur 29 & concurrently, EJ/PJ RTC Br.25 Tagudin, I. Sur SBC Law Batch 1996

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming great responsibilities and a lot of risks. It was at that views and ideas with, not to mention the height of my career as the Chief City Prosecutor camaraderie and friendships that should have been when I had the first taste of life threatening forged by face to face seminars and trainings. The situations with the presence of death threats. I beauty of the current trend, nevertheless, is having really thought that was the end of my flourishing the opportunity of attending such webinars on career. But God is good all the time for He never relevant topics in the confines of our respective allowed tragedy to befall on me. He had a greater homes, minus the fear of getting infected with the plan for me and eight (8) years later, He fulfilled His dreaded Covid19 disease. Video Conferencing promise to me and my family and gave me the (VCH) as the latest norm of conducting court chance to be of greater service to His community --- hearings is similarly challenging as we judges don't I succeeded in reaching the ultimate realization of get to properly scrutinize every action, mannerism my childhood dream by becoming the first Family as well as the facial expressions of witnesses being Court Judge of our town on July 6, 2020. I am still a presented virtually. Some parties cannot join the neophyte in the Judiciary but I am learning the VCH, too, due to poor internet connectivity. And ropes. But being a magistrate entails more gigantic because we have the solemn duty of keeping the responsibilities, greater challenges and risks than a wheels of justice rolling even during this pandemic, prosecutor because this time, I must have the eyes we sometimes have to brave the tide with a lot of and ears of an impartial observer and spectator. If prayers as our primary shield, on top of our PPEs. before, I concentrated mostly on the prosecution But I do believe that all these things shall come to aspect, this time, it is my duty and responsibility to pass someday in God's perfect time. After all, “God see, view and study the case from all angles and is never in hurry, but He is always on time.” We just sometimes I even have to think outside of the box in have to keep on hoping and praying that everything order to arrive at a just, fair and an unbiased will be okay. As the movie Shawshank Redemption decision. I know I still have a lot to learn and a long taught us, “Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of way to go especially in this time of the pandemic things, and no good things ever dies”. And as Andy when a lot of uncertainties lurk everywhere. The Dufresne (Tim Robbins) said to his friend Red learning process is quite more arduous this time (Morgan Freeman), “Fear is what makes a person since we have to contend ourselves with webinars prisoner, It is hope that sets him free”. Hence, let us and distance learning where we have no one to not lose hope for hope is the one thing that can help promptly and personally discuss and exchange us get through the darkest of times. 30

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Legal Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya My Journey by Emmanuel S. Brotarlo I am glad that my memory conversions. We were both hired after the gentle doesn't fail me despite the scrutiny of the late Atty. Padilla, the then Undersecretary passage of time, the of DAR during the time of Ramos Administration and struggle to cope with the Justice. Kevin Narce Vivero of the Sandiganbayan. Since land conversion cases are administrative in pandemic, and the anxiety it nature, we were not very much pressured and we were more privilege and well compensated for our boss was brings to many of us. With the too generous for real estate business then was booming. He maintained two (2) offices one in Goldloop Law Batch '96 and Bedan Tower along Amber Avenue and the other one was in Tektike both in Ortigas, Pasig City. spirit of camaraderie is on the When the results of the bar came out, I resigned in my air and the thought that the first employer for I was hired by Parulan Songcuya & Sese Law Offices for my desire then was to learn the Atty. Emmanuel Brotarlo 2021 San Beda Law Alumni basics in litigation while my classmate went to Homecoming is in the offing, I MERALCO. cannot avoid reminiscing our I recalled the first time I appeared in court was in Muntinlupa City. The instruction of the Senior Partner l a w school days in the finest Benedictine College was merely to manifest that there was an on-going negotiation for settlement and ask for a resetting. It was and now a University in Mendiola, Manila where it all rainy then but I was perspiring for I was too nervous and besides, I was exhausted asking every lawyer in the began. courtroom if he was my adverse counsel. After the case was called and after I entered my appearance, it was the Of course my thoughts are on a rewind mode and I adverse counsel who did the talking. I could not imagine encountered tidbits of flashbacks of the faces of our the ordeal I went through that morning and that all I said professors conducting intimidating and never ending in that hearing with confidence after gaining my recitations which rendered the daily learning process composure was “permission to leave your Honor.” challenging, traumatic, or unbearable to say the least After a month or so working in the aforesaid law office, (only in jest ). Nevertheless, I still take pride to be once a and contrary to the wishes of my Dad who was also a student of Dean Sundiang, Prof. Amurao, Prof. Mario lawyer and Iloilo City's Election Registrar, I told the Lopez, Prof. Arcilla, Prof. Justice Callejo, Professor Partners of the law office that I would go back to my Navarro, Prof. Hermosura, Prof. San Vicente, Prof. home Province, Iloilo. My intention was to join a known Lorenzo, Prof. Aban, Prof. Judge Albano, Prof. Delson, Prof. Jara and Professor Albay. I could not forget a classmate telling our Professor during recitation: “sir sorry, mental block.” Another one was asked to sit down and was told “pa one of the best examples ka pa, eh mali naman.” I remember also a Professor, on the first day of his class, who asked a classmate to go out after he saw him silently laughing. He could not resist laughing after hearing my joke. There was also a classmate whose blood pressure shot up. I could not also forget the indescribable feeling of getting failing grades in recitations in three (3) subjects after studying the whole day. Those were just among the few unforgettable moments or psychological traumas (in jest). I also recalled, while waiting for the results of the bar 31 exam, I could not forget the time I was with a classmate applying as legal assistants in a corporation in Quezon City. We met at about 9:30 a.m. at the corner of Cubao and Aurora Avenue , Quezon City and boarded a non- airconditioned bus. We applied also in several law firms and in a corporation in Makati City, but we ended in a law office or a real estate consultancy firm owned by the late Atty. Carlos Raneses who was specializing on land

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming law firm in the City and get an experience on litigation. with Paris put up a humble law office in MJDT Bldg. G. Banking on my qualifications as a Bedan lawyer, I Tuazon, Sampaloc, Manila. In less than a year with just landed working as an associate of Defensor Teodosio, few number of clients, we, together with Paris' younger Daquilanea, Ventilcacion & Averia Law Offices. I was just brother Atty. Sherwin G. Real, transferred to Makati City. so lucky to work under the “go to lawyer” of the City and Thru the help of another batchmate Atty. Andres Manuel, Province of Iloilo, Atty. Hector Teodosio. we were able to rent and thereafter, bought Atty. Philip Sigfrid Fortun's 83 square meter unit office at Cityland 10 I remember attending a murder case in Mambusao, Tower 1, HV Dela Costa Ayala Avenue North, Makati Capiz and after the hearing, a client gave me a live native City. chicken. I removed my barong and put the chicken in a plastic bag and boarded a bus. In another instance, Anxious as to whether our law office would thrive, I after my hearing in a northern town of the Province of continued my teaching in Adamson University in Iloilo involving illegal fishing, a client gave me two (2) business law subjects which I did when I was in Iloilo City plastic bags of shrimps. I recalled attending a titling case at Central Philippine University. It seemed that in Guimaras, Iloilo and I did not mind eating grilled corn everything was written in the stars or was it due to the on board a pump boat with my barong on. luck brought forth by the rumored two (2) dwarfs playing in our law office. I did not see them but one time at Lawyering then in the Province then was not too midnight while I was working alone in the office, I heard adversarial. I recalled personally serving my pleadings sounds of two (2) children running after each other. to the adverse counsels and ended up having cups of We have been so fortunate that our law office got coffee with them in their offices. I joined the basketball entangled to so many controversial cases starting from enthusiast lawyers who played during Tuesdays and Oakwood Mutiny Cases, Quisumbing Family feud Thursdays every week. I noticed that they were more involving a transgender member of the family, competitive in basketball tournaments than in litigations. Malaysian victim of kidnapping whose ransom was I was surprised to learn that there was an Association of allegedly stolen by the policemen, case involving a Bedan Lawyers in the City and we were totaling thirty two business woman who almost died due to butt augment (32) if I am not mistaken. I met Attys. Posecion, Rex procedures against a celebrity doctor, a German model Rico, Nietes, and Teruel and some were judges and who was murdered by her friends in Lemery Batangas, a prosecutor whose names I forgot …. my sincere kidnapping case against the Contractor of Robredo apologies. Gymanasium in Naga City, the Maguindanao Massacre cases dubbed as the trial of the century, the After my three (3) year stint as a litigation lawyer, just in Atio Castillo Hazing case, the ABS CBN Franchise case time that batchmate Atty. Paris Real went to the City for and the Dengvaxia Cases. official business. In one of his visits, we discussed our plan to put up a law office in Manila. Thus, in 2001, I left By the way, I am glad and proud to share that a Iloilo City with a heavy heart and took the challenge in classmate who went to MERALCO twenty three (23) trying it here in Metro Manila. Initially, I worked as an years ago is currently the First VP/ Head: Regulatory in-house lawyer of Emilio Aguinaldo College, Pearl Affairs of the Company. He is no less than our Atty. Manila Hotel, and Medical Center Manila and I handled Ronald Valles. And so is true with another classmate their corporate and labor concerns. Since our focus was Atty. Andres Manuel, who paved the way for the to put up a law office, in 2002, I resigned and together acquisition of our law office in Makati City sometime in 2005, has been maintaining his own Manuel Law Office 32 at Tektite Ortigas Center, Pasig City for more than fifteen (15) years now. Yes, it was not easy and it is not just all hard work. Since we are not custodians of our crystal balls and we do not know where our legal journey is leading us, however, to our dear professors including those who had returned home to their Creator, regardless of our niche in the legal community, domestic or foreign, be it in the different or various fields of law practice, in the judiciary, executive or legislative body or in the Government service, one thing that we are so certain about is that you never cease to inspire us. We are confident and continue to thrive as Bedan lawyers and we are… because of you.

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya Life of a Lawyer 33 in the US Atty. Den Den Salvatus-Guerrero Becoming an Esquire in NY and Practicing Law in Texas Sometime in the second week of September, Atty. Paris Real sent me a message and asked me to write an article for the souvenir program. The topic is about the life of a practicing lawyer in the US or any topic which appeals to my interest. There are a lot of topics that appeal to my interest — the current immigration policies in the US, how fake news undermines democracy, tyranny in the Philippines and in the US, lessons learned from the pandemic, why Leni would be a good president, etc. After procrastinating for weeks, I decided to write about my journey to becoming an esquire in NY and my legal practice in Texas. Begin with the end in mind Begin with the end in mind is Habit 2 of Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. He said that one of the best ways to incorporate this habit into one's life is to develop a Personal Mission Statement. He added that if you don't make a conscious effort to visualize who you are and what you want in life, then you empower other people and circumstance to shape you and your life by default. Very early on in my legal career, I have identified my core values and advocacies. I live and practice the values of integrity, competence, empathy, and dedication. I advocate for women, children, and education. These values and advocacies guide me when I take on cases and when I face ethical dilemmas. I choose to align myself with and support those who share the same values. I hone and sharpen the skills that allow me to be more of service to those who I advocate for. It is easy to lose sight of what matters without values to govern your action and easier to give up when you have no reason for doing things. Thus, I began my journey by answering these questions: what are my values and for whom are my labors? Dream with your eyes open Almost 15 years ago on May 25, I boarded Philippine Airlines Flight PR 102 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on a one-way ticket to Tom Bradley International Terminal in Los Angeles, California. With me are my sons who were 10, 7 and 4 years old at that time. My husband, an engineer, was offered a job of his dreams in Houston, Texas. I brought with me proof of my credentials – diploma, transcripts, certificates – because I knew then that the change would be a new beginning for our family and for my legal career, in particular. That even while I have already years of experience as a court attorney and have litigated cases before the Supreme Court as a senior state solicitor, I would have to prove myself anew. After a couple of months in Houston, I started my research on what I needed to do to start my legal practice in the US. I learned the following: 1) Bar admission is regulated by each of the 50 U.S. states, and each state has complete discretion in the process. Some states permit foreign lawyers with an LL.M. degree to take the bar exam and be admitted to practice, otherwise, you need a law degree (J.D.) from an American Bar Association (ABA)-accredited school to sit for the bar examinations, 2) you have to sit for a two (or three) day examination consisting of a Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) which is a 200 multiple choice questions and the Multistate Essay Examination (MEE) which cover the following content area: Business Associations (Agency and Partnership, Corporations,

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Limited Liability Companies), Conflict of Laws, goals, I need to pick myself up, jump the hurdles, and Constitutional Law, Contract, Criminal Law and dream with my eyes open. Be a dreamer of the day. Be Procedure, Evidence, Family Law, and Federal Civil a dangerous woman. Quoting T.E. Lawrence's Seven Procedure; and 3) take the Multistate Professional Pillars of Wisdom, he said: Responsibility Examination (MPRE) which is a two-hour 60-question examination on legal and judicial ethics. In “All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by some states, additional subject matters were required, night, in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the like in Texas, you have to know Oil and Gas Law day to find that it was vanity. But the dreamers of the day because it is highly regulated in the state. are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes to make it possible.” Because we were residing in Texas, I submitted my application to take the bar exams in Texas. I read the In 2013, I sat for the bar examinations again albeit in Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas carefully New York. I self-studied in earnest. My Bedan-lawyer and found an exception to the LLM or JD from ABA- friends who have successfully hurdled the NY bar --- accredited school requirement. After submitting a 70+ Benilda Quintana-Bacorro and Richard Tabago – legal memorandum invoking exemption from the provided me bar materials, notes, and tips (a bar ops, if requirement, the Texas Board of Law Examiners (TBLE) you will). Maila Mercado-Espiritu, my dear friend since allowed me to sit for the bar exams. The bar exams our freshman year in San Beda Law (go I-G!), stormed were given twice a year – February and July. I submitted the heavens with her prayers. And in December of that my application and requirements in 2008. The year, I found myself taking the oath before the Third requirements include, among others, recommendations Judicial Department of the Supreme Court of New York. from work supervisors, income tax returns for the last 5 years, and equivalency report of legal study from foreign Be in the arena law school which, in my case, is my transcript from San Beda. You would think that with my newly acquired credential, I would be a shoo-in for a legal position in law offices. I I attended a 10-week review class that is so much like was not. These are the facts: I am a woman. A mother. our own review classes in San Beda. While the basic Asian. With Hispanic (Perpetua) sounding name. An legal concepts are similar, there are nuances that a immigrant. I probably would have a better chance of foreign-trained lawyer would not master in just 10- being hired if my name was Karen or if I were a man or if I weeks. I plunged on anyway. In February 2009, I took were white. I am not. I passed one hurdle and on to the the exam. I failed my first take. I took it again in July and next. I failed again. I got good grades in the MEE (the essays). My MBE (multiple choice) score, on the other Let me back track a bit. My first experience of hand, was another matter. After two failures, the TBLE discrimination did not happen in the US; it happened in said I cannot take it again using the exemption. TBLE the Philippines. After taking my oath on May 1997, I required me to obtain either an LLM or a J.D. from an applied to law offices. My first interview was with a male ABA-accredited law school. I felt defeated. I gave law partner of a middle-sized full-service law firm. It myself excuses not to pursue it further. went on smoothly until this question was asked, “Do you think you can handle several cases considering your Fortunately, I am blessed with people who believe in me. family situation?” He was referring to my being married In a two-page, single-spaced, 11-points sized Calibri and with an 11-month-old son. I could have easily 34 font letter, my husband reminded me that lawyering is answered yes; I chose, at that moment, not to dignify the my passion and if I want to pursue my professional question with an answer because my “family situation”

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya (read: gender) has nothing to do with my skills. I left and am a catechist in our community. I am sharing this not to moved on to my next interview. My first job as a lawyer do some heavy chair lifting (read: magbuhat ng sariling was with the Law Firm of Juarez and Olivas-Gallo whose bangko) but rather to emphasize that to whom much is partners were women who advocated for women and given, much is required (Luke 12:48). There's a lot of children. (Begin with the end in mind.) I was mentored good work to be done out there. And if there would be by Atty. Chato Olivas-Gallo (now Quinto). Together, we criticisms to the good work that you do, remember these provided pro bono legal services to abused women and words from T. Roosevelt from The Man in the Arena: children, particularly survivors of sexual violence. The law firm provided legal counsel to Women's Crisis “It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out Center. how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the I moved on to public service and was a senior state man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred solicitor when we migrated to the US. And then, back to by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who being discriminated yet again because of my gender errs and comes up short again and again, because there and ethnicity. is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends My thought process, however, was: if the system does himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows in the not have a space for me, then I would create my own end the triumph of high achievement and who, at the space. In 2014, I established my own firm – Salvatus- worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly so that Guerrero Law. Because I have a state of NY bar his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls admission but residing in Texas, my practice was limited who knew neither victory nor defeat.” to federal law practice. I ventured into the best practice for me – immigration law. I added tax law after I acquired Everyday, I choose to be in the arena. My journey is enough skills and knowledge on tax compliance and littered with failures yet I dare as much as I can – not resolution. Solo practice is difficult. I am the allowing what I cannot do interfere with what I can. accountant, marketing strategist, IT, and lawyer rolled into one. My financial statement for the first 4 years Listen to God's Laughter were in the red. In my first year, I remember that I only have two clients for the entire year. But those clients As a final note, in Matthew Kelly's book “I Heard God who trusted me with their immigration and tax needs Laugh”, he said that: referred other friends and family members and those friends and family members referred other friends. The “Success at almost anything rests upon this single best marketing strategy is still a service provided with principle: Do the basics, do them well, and do them integrity, dedication, competence and empathy. every day, especially when you don't feel like doing them.” And I try to give back more than what was given to me. Even when my Profit and Loss Statement was more loss In that book, Kelly talks about prayer. And my journey than profit, I did a lot of pro bono legal work for the YMCA from here to there or from any where always start with a International and Catholic Charities. I did pro bono legal prayer. Maila and I often say, “We came to San Beda representation to those in removal (deportation) armed only with our dreams and a prayer in our hearts.” proceedings, to women who were victims of violence, We can hear God's laugh. Only if we dare to listen. And and to the children in the border. I volunteer to teach if we do, He will bless our labor fruitfully. English to non-English speakers, and for 15 years now, I That in all things, God may be glorified. 35

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Malasakit and the Way Forward by Ramon S. Ang How Ramon S. Ang is It was the first to source and donate RT-PCR testing fueling the country's machines from abroad, to help raise the country's testing recovery from the capacity. When global demand for personal protective pandemic. equipment was at its highest, Mr. Ang directed the company's procurement teams to utilize SMC's The COVID-19 pandemic international network, eventually flying in a plane-load of has redefined the way PPEs, and partnering with local suppliers to purchase institutions respond to more supplies, all for donation. crises and how businesses remain agile during wide-scale economic disruptions. Even as the company continued to initiate even more response efforts, the company ensured the continuous For Ramon S. Ang, president of San Miguel supply of food, fuel, and power for the public, and job Corporation, the pandemic further solidified \"malasakit\"- security for its 70,000-strong workforce. It also paid in for both people and country-as the company's core advance all taxes and concession and contractual fees value and main purpose for being. to government, to help make sure public funds would be available for pandemic response. More than being a resilient and adaptive organization throughout the crisis, San Miguel, under his leadership, Mr. Ang ensured the health and safety of employees by rolled out an unprecedented response to the pandemic establishing an RTPCR testing facility that provided free utilizing its resources, scale and expertise to help regular swab tests for all organic and third-party address the crisis and protect lives and livelihood. personnel nationwide. On top of the protocols and flexible work arrangements that were activated, the At the same time, the company made sure its major facility was among the immediate efforts SMC instituted investments push through to help secure the to better safeguard its employees. This helped ensure foundations of the economy and transition to a stronger that the operation of San Miguel's essential businesses post-pandemic recovery that benefits all. were uninterrupted and continued to provide service to Filipinos. Standing strong together While protecting lives and helping keep the economy From the very first day of implementation of the going were his priority, Mr. Ang recognizes that for the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) Mr. Ang country to truly recover, vaccination is key. brought the value of malasakit to the fore, rallying San Miguel's businesses towards supporting pandemic This led SMC to launch its Ligtas Lahat COVID-19 response efforts. It's liquor business converted its Vaccination Program in early 2021, making it one of the operations to produce disinfectant alcohol, which the first companies in the country to commit to provide free company then donated to hospitals and front liners all COVID-19 vaccines to its nationwide workforce. With over the country. Its food business began a nationwide food donation program. Its infrastructure and fuel businesses enabled free transportation and toll road use for medical practitioners. Mr. Ang's drive to help the country through the most difficult months of the pandemic resulted in what has been described as the largest private sector response to the pandemic, totaling over P14 billion before the end of 2020. Apart from the donations of alcohol, food, fuel, and free toll use for front liners that extended for well over a year, 36 SMC also donated much-needed, life saving medical equipment and supplies.

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 90% of its employees inoculated as of November 2021, development and improve accessibility in the provinces. Mr. Ang believes that the Ligtas Lahat program is the These will further open up livelihood opportunities in company's biggest contribution to help end the tourism, food production, agriculture, transportation, pandemic. and local industries. Beyond building roads and mass transport systems, Mr. Energizing the Philippine economy Ang is committed to incorporating sustainability in all its major initiatives. Through its international airport and Aside from San Miguel's support to economic recovery, green Aerocity development, San Miguel will set the Mr. Ang is helping set the course for the country's benchmark for all future green and sustainable cities in contribution to climate action, through its Power the country. business. SMC Global Power (SMCGP) is heavily The company's massive cleanup and rehabilitation investing in technologies that will provide cleaner, more efforts for two of the country's most polluted rivers - the affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for the Pasig River and Tullahan River, both occupying top country. spots in the global list of the world's worst plastics- emitting rivers polluting the world's oceans - is a Among these are 31 new Battery Energy Storage testament to its deep sense of malasakit. System (BESS) facilities being built in various locations For RSA and SMC, the job of saving the environment, throughout the country. Primed as the largest grid-scale and overall making the country better, is not just installation in Southeast Asia, SMCGP's BESS facilities someone else's responsibility-but every single Filipino's. are all set to be completed by 2022. With a combined rated capacity of 1,000 megawatt-hours, these facilities 37 will significantly improve grid power supply stability. Equally important, these will strengthen the penetration and integration of renewable energy, such as solar and wind, to the grid. Aside from the BESS technology, the company is also scaling up efforts to diversify its portfolio to expand capacities using hydropower, solar facilities, and other renewable energy sources. Paving the way for recovery and growth Undoubtedly, it is the visionary leadership and heart of Mr. Ang that drives SMC to pursue initiatives that address the needs of Filipinos, while ensuring its business goals are realized. Little wonder then that in the first year of the pandemic, SMC marked a number of major milestones. In June, it completed and opened the last remaining section of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), which has gone a long way in boosting development in Central and Northern Luzon. Before the end of the year, it soft-opened to the public the much-awaited Skyway Stage 3 project, seamlessly connecting the South Luzon and North Luzon expressways and in the process decongesting Metro Manila traffic. Its MRT-7 Project, which will help decentralize growth and push development outside of Metro Manila towards the provinces, is also progressing well and is on track to start operations by end-2022. It also opened the northbound lane of its ongoing Skyway Extension project in the south. Future infrastructure projects, such as the South Luzon Expressway Toll Roads 4 and 5 (SLEX TR4 and TR5) and the world-class New Manila International Airport (NMIA) and aerocity developments, will likewise contribute to Mr. Ang's mission to fast-track

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming CHILDREN'S GARDEN OF THE PHILIPPINES by Atty. Andres P. Manuel, Jr. It was a bright sunny Saturday, have ambitions. They further on October 30, 2021, when I first laid my eyes on the Children's learned that dreams and Garden of the Philippines (CGP) located at Zone, 3, Blk. 2, Sitio ambitions can be achieved Parugan, Brgy. San Jose, Antipolo City. and can become true. Right Other than the general notion that now, most of them are looking the place is an orphanage, I had no idea that it was actually a haven forward to becoming police created by Spouses Billy and Sharon Gersava-Wark for male street children mostly between the age of 12 and officers, soldiers, and doctors above. and by our encouragement, Each of the 15 children have their stories to tell but it appears that poverty, parents' absolute indifference to hopefully some of them will their responsibilities and the children's impoverished environment drove them to the streets. Totally innocent likewise aspire to become and unassuming, they wandered the streets where they got associated with peers whose only possible lawyers, like us. All that they Atty. Andres Manuel, Jr. contribution, however, was to teach them the rule of the streets, i.e., “survival of need is the continuous the fittest and extinction of the weak.” support of an institution like CGP and t h e Without any guide, they became open benefactors who will help CGP sustain its mission and preys for violence, abuses, criminalities help these children realize their goals. By the look in and drugs. They just simply lived by the day their eyes, these children also want to become good and without any clear direction in life. useful citizens of this country. By God's saving hands The children and the entire CGP family were very and loving embrace, grateful in receiving the amount of cash and goodies our these children were led batch had given them that day. While many were called, to CGP where they got Manny Brotarlo and I were so happy that God had cleaned up, provided with clean and decent chosen us to give our clothes, beds to sleep speeches; and in letting and food to eat. They the children know that no longer have to there is God who will worry where they will get their next meal or where they always look after them will sleep over the night or what sinister activities they and love them no have to undertake just to have both. CGP provided matter what. The lunch them roof over their heads and sent them to school. that we had with them is not only a reminder of These children were again given the chance to have a God's sharing of new outlook at life. In CGP, they learned to dream and to Himself during the Last Supper. It was also a clear reminder for all of us that God cares for everyone regardless of his position in life. The administrators, staff and children of CGP may not be able to personally thank everyone who were kind hearted enough to share their blessings just to make our outreach program with the street children at CGP, a success. On their behalf, I am extending their appreciation to our class by echoing their kind words, cheers and joys as they say, “MARAMING SALAMAT PO!!!” 38

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Beda College of L Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya San1971 1996Golden aw JUBILARIANS Silver JUBILARIANS A Homage to our Luminaries By Atty. Maria Zarah Villanueva - Castro Ora et Labora. Pray and Work. Indeed, words are powerless to express the gratitude they deserve for the many careers that they have This has been the maxim of a shaped, minds that they have honed and lives that they Bedan lawyer. Yet, it will never have touched. Their words of wisdom still resonate in have been instilled in our hearts most of us. and minds – and continuously Atty. Maria Zarah Villanueva-Castro revered by each of us – if not for The overwhelming consequences of the pandemic the tough and genuine dedication posed bigger challenge to our law professors. This of our law professors. global crisis has been an extraordinary time for education with our law professors adapting to the remote They are our legal luminaries, who learning environment. This entails more creativity, taug ht us that the measure of a good lawyer is not just forbearance and sacrifice on their end to keep their his academic learnedness, but his humble character. students engaged. The current situation has more than They instilled in us that the study of law has always been ever highlighted the crucial contribution of our law a test of character – for character builds competence. professors in ensuring that legal learning never stops and no one is outdistanced in a distance learning This has been our brand of lawyering. This has been the modality. brand of a Bedan lawyer. We are paragons of justice, who have been molded to be fully human, wholly Their cardinal role in building greater resilience in legal Christian, truly Filipino, and globally competitive leaders education, excellent leadership, and significant and legal professionals. innovation cannot be paralleled. Their unwavering care in looking after their students' mental health and ability to Teaching in law school is not an easy feat. It requires deal with these trying times is exceptionally laudable. patience, dedication and more importantly, passion. A good and passionate professor can enthuse faith, stir Truly, we owe all of this to our law professors – our legal one's imagination and inspire an appetite for learning. luminaries – who deserve gratitude and honor in perpetuity. As their humble prodigies, may we all pay Our law professors have gallantly helped us become forward the gift of legal knowledge that our law accomplished members of the legal community. They professors generously imparted to us. have staunchly challenged us to become the strong Bedan lawyers that we are today. Their efforts in every As Bedan lawyers, we are expected to continue the single class, sharing of their legal expertise and being legacy of our professors. As we continue with our constantly on top of the game, ready to challenge their practice of law, we should preach and emulate what our students ---all of these steered us to have faith in our beloved professors imparted to us. We should set own abilities and potentials. Our law professors' superb example to our future Bedan lawyers and inspire them diligence and untiring patience indubitably inspired our as well the way our professors did to us. inner confidence which led us to achieve the peak of our ambitions. Praises to our law professors! Continuously radiate the light of legal knowledge! 39

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Class of ‘96: Gifted to Give by Atty. Jose Ronald V. Valles The San Beda Law Batch 96, together with our family, friends and colleagues, is wholeheartedly sharing our humble contribution to the young patients of UP-PGH, who are struggling with cancer. We cannot fathom the suffering these children and their families are going through. Their anxiety is further exacerbated by the pandemic, as they are separated from family and friends who can give them love and comfort. We understand the financial difficulties that their families face aggravated by the lingering adverse effects of the pandemic on their means of livelihood. However, we draw hope from the children themselves. For even in the midst of their suffering, they manifest extraordinary strength and resilience. In the bleakest of times, they see that better days are still ahead. We admire them for their courage and strong faith in God. As we pray for the children's quick and complete recovery, we hope that our meager offering can fill their heart with love, joy and comfort. We believe that these difficult times call for the spirit of Bayanihan and we are happy to be of service to these young children in our own small way. 40

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya SBU COL Dissertation BATCH '96 Prayer by PRAYER Pope Francis by Professor Liezeil L. Zabanal Eternal Father, You have made the whole world stop Almighty God, as we walking for a while. reflect on how you have revealed your You have forcibly silenced the noise that we have all love, compassion and created around us. mercy to mankind, we also look at our own selves and contemplate how we have been an instrument of You have made us bend our knees and ask for your love, compassion and mercy to our brethren. In miracles. the profession we have embarked into, we are always in the midst of challenging battles, You closed Your Churches so that we realize how dark crossroads, fears and confusion. our world is without You in it. Amidst the turbulence that we have gone through or You humiliated the proud and powerful. The economy is may be going through, may we be inspired by the collapsing, businesses are closing. story of Job who persevered in his faith in YOU, as he said (Job 1:21): We have been very proud to think that everything we have, everything we own, have been the result of our Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return there; the Lord gave and the Lord has hard work. taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord. We have forgotten that it was Your grace, Your mercy, that made us who we are and has given us everything And now, Lord, we are who we are and we have what we have because of You. Without you, we are we have. nothing. May we learn to appreciate each day that We are going around in circles looking for some cure for we live, every breathe that we take, and learn to this disease, when in fact we need to humble ourselves celebrate life, for we are truly blessed. You have answered our prayers. While they may not always be and ask for guidance and wisdom only from You. in accordance with how we wanted things to happen, We have been living our lives as if we are here on Earth we know that Your will is for our greater glory. forever, as if there is no Heaven, no Purgatory, no Hell. Perhaps this virus is actually Your way of purifying and At times that we are in doubt, Lord, forgive us for our cleansing our souls, bringing us back to You. Today, as faith falters. At times that we seem to give up, forgive us for we are weak. We know that You are a forgiving these words travel the internet, may all who see them and loving God. Heal our wounds and help us let go join their hearts and hands in prayer, asking for of our sorrows. Set us free from sins and give us fortitude and stronger faith to become your true forgiveness, asking for healing and protection against follower. this virus, but above all, asking that Your Holy and Divine Will be done and not ours. Continue to bless us Lord that we may be a blessing to others. Keep us strong that we may help the weak. GOD we beg You, deliver us from all evil on Earth if it is Keep us uplifted that we may have words of Your will! encouragement for others. We pray too for those that are lost and can't find their way, may You lead Father, You have been patiently waiting for us to turn our them to Your way. faces to You, to repent of our sins. We are sorry to ignore Your voice! Selfishly, sometimes we have And as we prepare for our Alumni Homecoming in 2021, we pray for forgotten that You are GOD!! Lord, I am not worthy to your guidance and protection for all of have you come into my house, but one word from you us, our families, and all stakeholders, will be enough to heal me! You Lord only need to say so that everything that we do will be for your greater glory. the Word and our souls will be healed. AMEN. We ask You for healing and deliverance in Jesus' name! By the infinite merits of his Most Sacred Heart and of the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary. Amen. We come to you this very hour, seeking for your blessing in the various business matters at hand during this virtual San Beda Alumni Association joint board meeting. We ask this in the glorious name of Jesus, AMEN. 41 That in all things God may be glorified!

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Executive Committee San Beda College of L Silver Jubilarians' Working Committee Silver aw for the 2021 Alumni Homecoming JUBILARIANS Golden 1971 1996JUBILARIANS Cong. Jesus Manuel \"Bong\" C. Suntay Atty. Paris Real Chairman of the 2021 Silver Jubilarians President, of Law Class '96 Outreach Committee Finance Committee Atty. Emmanuel Brotario Atty. Andres Manuel, Jr. Atty. Flordeliz Elizaga Atty. Hubert Molina Program Committee Publication Committee Coffee Table Raffle Prizes Book Committee Committee Judge Perry Punzalan Atty. Maria Zarah Villanueva-Castro Atty. Millicent Reyes Atty. Maria Teresa Sianghio-Ubano Memorabilia Solicitation Logistics Spiritual Activities Committee Committee Committee Committee Sr. Asst. Provincial Prosec. Atty. Ronald Valles Judge Emmylou Rubang-Mangasar Atty. Liezeil Zabanal 42 Daisy Miranda-Gorospe

2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya San Beda University College of Law Anthem Words and Music: Atty. Avelino Velasquez Cruz Sons of San Beda College of Law, Daughters of Justice, Honest and true. Good Christian Lawyers, onward we go, With brave hearts, strong minds, and faith in the Rule of Law. We'll raise the Red and the White flag To ST. BENEDICT'S Holy Rule. Honor and Justice our guiding Path: “ORA ET LABORA.” Long we'll remember our days of yore. Classmates, professors, exams, and books, The Spires, the gardens, the Chapel of Pray'r. BEDANS United: Answer the call! Lawyers and Judges, and Law teachers all. Fight for our Freedoms, Justice and truth. Lessons we're learned in our youth, From San Beda our ALMA MATER. BEDANS United: Answer the call! Lawyers and Judges, Law teachers all. Call forth the Red Lions' Roar!! FOR SAN BEDA FOR COUNRTY and GOD!! 43

Tatag ng Bedista sa Hamon ng Pandemya 2021 Grand Law Alumni Homecoming San Beda University ALMA MATER HYMN (Lyrics by Raul S. Roco, CAS of 1960 and Music by Rev. Benildus Ma. Maramba, OSB) Herald the Bedans coming, May their fellowship never cease; Molded by bold undaunted men of pray'r; work and peace, Through the carefree days of our boyhood And the visions of our youth You gave us the wisdom of Benedict's soul Faith in God and love of the truth When we encounter trials and hardships, We shall give you honor and fame, For nothing but these show our loyalty clear To our Alma Mater's name. Bring out the challenges, we'll win them all; And fear neither fire nor blood; Bedans will answer the clarion call For San Beda, our country, and God 44