Xavier University Center for Legal Assistance inked agreements with the Commission on Human Rights Region X (CHR X), Integrated Bar of the Philippines – Misamis Oriental Chapter (IBP Mis Or Chapter), and the International Pro Bono Alliance (IPBA) to establish an expanded case referral system for the basic and marginalized sectors in Northern Mindanao.
Last 4 November 2021, The IBP Mis Or Chapter, headed by its President, Atty. Katrina Mordeno connects its Legal Aid Committee to XUCLA’s Tabang Legal program, the center’s flagship legal assistance program. Also present in the ceremony is the Legal Aid Chairperson, Atty. Anna C. Caroz, and its Treasurer, Atty. Lorela B. Escobero. Xavier University is represented by the Vice President for Administration Mr. Edison B. Sasoy, and XUCLA Director, Atty. Ernesto B. Neri.
This partnership also offers externship opportunities for law students covered under the Clinical Legal Education Program. This agreement with the IBP was facilitated by the IPBA, a global network of pro bono legal aid service providers, which aims to mainstream pro bono culture in the legal profession. This is also supported by The Asia Foundation, the College of Law’s partner in developing its legal aid services.
On the other hand, The Commission on Human Rights Region X inked its partnership with XUCLA last 25 October 2021. This aims to enhance CHR’s legal assistance and services for women, girls, and LGBTQIs in cases involving violence and discrimination. It also delivers capacity building initiatives for XUCLA’s lawyers and interns. Regional Director Jeanne Ivy F. Abrina expressed that this is part of CHR’s broader effort to strengthen its Gender-based observatory and response to gaps in the provision of legal aid services in cases of Gender-based violence. On XUCLA’s end, legal literacy and legal aid concerning gender-based violence and discrimination will be integral components in the clinical legal education program and practice court classes.
In both services, XUCLA offers legal counseling and affidavit drafting among other activities covered under the Certification Level 1 of the Student Practice Rule.
