07/07/2025
Congratulations to the pioneering batch of PUP LLM Program!
May your LLM degree be the “golden key that opens the doors to the Philippine Judiciary or other illustrious avenues in your legal journey”, as aptly noted by our Best Thesis Presenter Awardee, Atty. Christian George Melitante.
Barrista Solutions | A Graduate’s Speech
1. Who or what inspired you to pursue legal studies?
From a very young age, my heart was set on becoming a Medical Doctor—a dream I cherished with unwavering passion. Never in my wildest imagination did I see myself as a lawyer. Yet, life’s realities intervened. Financial constraints made it impossible for me to pursue medicine, as the demands of medical school would not allow me to work and study simultaneously. Undeterred, I resolved to seek a profession that commands equal respect and impact. It was this determination that led me to the field of law, where I now strive to serve others with the same dedication and purpose I once reserved for medicine.
2. What were the main obstacles that you had to go through in law school and how did you overcome them?
To call it mere intimidation would be an understatement. I entered UST Law not as a product of a prestigious university, but as someone who had to carve my own path. Among 500 students, I was the sole recipient of a Full Scholarship—an achievement that set me apart, yet also placed a target on my back. My classmates were graduates of elite institutions, many boasting Cum Laude and Magna Cum Laude honors.
Despite having graduated as Summa Cum Laude, my accomplishment was immediately questioned. During my application interview, the Faculty Secretary dismissed my recognition, suggesting it was only possible because my graduating class was small. On my very first day, my distinction was invisible. In Constitutional Law, the professor acknowledged every honor graduate—except me. When my turn came, I was simply told to sit down, my achievements overlooked because I did not come from a top school.
Yet, I refused to let this define me. I battled the intimidation, not just from my peers but from the very faculty meant to nurture us. My classmates had no idea about my academic background, but as time passed, my performance spoke for itself. Eventually, they discovered I was a Summa Cum Laude, and suddenly, my dedication and capability made sense to them. That moment earned me their respect, but it also fueled my determination.
From then on, I doubled my efforts—studying harder, working longer, and striving not just to keep up, but to stand out. I transformed intimidation into motivation, proving that true excellence is not dictated by the name of your school, but by the relentless pursuit of greatness, regardless of where you begin.
3. What made you pursue your Master of Laws at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines?
Back in 2012, I embarked on a master’s program in law at another university, driven by a deep passion to advance my knowledge. I dedicated a year and a half to this pursuit, but two critical challenges forced me to pause. First, my professor’s constant rescheduling clashed repeatedly with my teaching commitments, making it nearly impossible to keep up. More importantly, the experience revealed a profound truth: what is the value of a master’s program when the core subject is neglected, and instead, students are subjected to endless political rants? This disillusionment caused me to lose interest, and I redirected my energy toward real estate, successfully passing the Board Exams.
Yet, my thirst for knowledge and growth remained unquenched. When an opportunity arose, I enrolled in an MBA program, completing it in 2019. Still, the unfinished chapter of my master of law degree lingered in my mind. So, when I learned that the Polytechnic University of the Philippines was launching a pioneering batch for its masteral law program, I seized the moment without hesitation. I committed fully, taking a full course load, and proudly graduated this July 2025.
This journey reflects not only resilience and adaptability but an unwavering commitment to fulfilling my academic and professional aspirations—no matter the obstacles or detours along the way.
4. How different is it from your venture as a Jurist Doctor student?
At first glance, the most obvious difference between being a Masteral student and a Juris Doctor might seem to be the absence of the nerve-wracking roll call by index card during recitations. But in truth, the Masteral journey is far more daunting and intense. Unlike the Juris Doctor experience, where peer pressure is palpable, the Masteral program demands you to withstand relentless, grueling questioning from your professors—questions that cut deeper and carry heavier weight because there is an unspoken, almost sacred assumption that you already possess profound knowledge of the law and everything surrounding your report presentations.
Moreover, as a practicing lawyer, the stakes escalate dramatically. You expose yourself to rigorous scrutiny not only from professors but from fellow seasoned lawyers, each armed with probing inquiries that challenge your every assertion. The expectations multiply; the pressure mounts.
Yet, my personal experience adds another layer to this challenge. During my Juris Doctor days, my classmates were peers—almost the same age, sharing the same energy and drive. Now, in my Master of Laws program, after 17 years of practicing law, I find myself the oldest tree in a forest of saplings—young, vibrant, freshly minted lawyers, brimming with excitement, resilience, and brilliance. This stark contrast fuels an intense pressure within me: can I, the seasoned veteran, still rise tall and strong among this sea of youthful talent? Can I continue to grow, to thrive, and to prove that experience and wisdom can stand shoulder to shoulder with youthful brilliance?
This is not just a study program; it is a profound test of endurance, knowledge, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
5. For you, what advantages do LLM holders have in the practice of the legal profession?
Well, initially, holding an LLM might seem like a prestigious badge that sets you apart from other members of the Bar. Yet, the reality is far more profound and demanding. Possessing an LLM is not merely a symbol of academic achievement—it is a solemn responsibility. As a lawyer, you become a vanguard, a catalyst for transformative legal and judicial reform.
Through my journey, I have come to recognize the vast potential and urgent need for development, critical scrutiny, and reform within the Philippine Legal System. This realization fuels my commitment to not only practice law but to elevate it.
In the realm of legal advocacy, my greatest strength lies in the art of pleadings—the precise and compelling presentation of cases and arguments. The knowledge and insights gained from my LLM have sharpened my vision to look beyond the mere letter of the law. I no longer simply apply statutes; I delve deeply into the principles underlying them, exploring every dimension of their application.
When I argue before the court, I do so with a holistic perspective—illuminating not just what the law prescribes, but what justice demands. My arguments transcend technicalities, appealing to equity and fairness, guiding the judge to a ruling that honors the spirit of the law as much as its letter. This, I believe, is the true power and privilege of holding an LLM: to champion a legal system that is not only lawful but just.
6. What are your tips to law students who wish to pass or even top their Bar exams?
For every law student who dares to dream beyond merely passing the Bar—strive not just to pass, but to TOP the Bar! This is your battle cry: Aim for the summit, because no one can ever take that triumph away from you. Dream boldly and without limits. Even if fate does not crown you as the Topnotcher, your unwavering pursuit will still secure your rightful place as a passer—an achievement worthy of honor.
Remember, topping the Bar elevates you beyond the ordinary; it transforms you from a mere passer into a distinguished legal mind. Yet, the true mark of greatness lies not only in rankings but in the sacred title of ATTY before your name and the steadfast commitment to uphold the oath of the Legal Profession with integrity and valor.
As you prepare for the Bar Exams, guard your focus fiercely. Do not fall into the trap of comparison—your study journey is uniquely yours. Resist the temptation to measure your progress against classmates who may have already completed their third or fourth readings. Study at your own pace, in your own rhythm. Reject pressure; embrace balance. Live fully and normally, nurturing your mental well-being without overthinking your preparedness.
You have already wielded the power of 4 to 5 years of rigorous legal education—this is your arsenal, your foundation, your unbeatable weapon for the Bar.
Above all, seek divine guidance—not with timid wishes of “Sana po,” but with bold declarations of victory. Pray with conviction that you are already claiming your place as a Topnotcher or Passer, whichever destiny has written for you. Own your success before it unfolds.
This is your moment. Claim it with courage, faith, and relentless determination.
7. What is your message to lawyers who wish to pursue their LLM degrees as well?
For every lawyer aspiring to conquer the pinnacle of legal mastery—pursue your LLM while you are young, vibrant, and unburdened by the heavy responsibilities of family, children, and life’s many demands. Ignite and keep ablaze your passion for legal knowledge, for this journey is far more than just adding three letters after your name.
At the onset, an LLM might seem like a mere credential, a simple suffix. But trust me, it is so much more—a transformative voyage of discovery and growth. I speak from experience: completing my LLM was not just about the title; it was about truly Legally Loving my Mastery. The degree became a testament to my dedication, resilience, and profound understanding of the law.
You may not yet see the immediate benefits or have a clear path in your legal career, but remember this—arming yourself with an LLM equips you to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the fiercest warriors of the legal battlefield. It prepares you for challenges that others might shy away from. Delay this pursuit, and you risk being overwhelmed by life’s responsibilities, missing the moment when this degree could have been your greatest asset.
Ultimately, an LLM is not just a degree—it is a symbol of courage, prestige, and unwavering commitment to the legal profession. Who knows? Your LLM might just be the golden key that opens the doors to the Philippine Judiciary or other illustrious avenues in your legal journey.
Seize the moment. Embrace the challenge. Let your LLM be the legacy you proudly carry forward.
**Atty. Christian George Llanes Melitante, through his dedicated practice, has established himself as a distinguished legal professional, celebrated for both his academic excellence and his enduring commitment to the legal field. Now happily married to Christina Marie Edades Melitante for five years, he continues to balance a thriving family life with a remarkable legal career spanning over 17 years.
His academic journey is marked by consistent achievement at the highest level. He graduated as Class Valedictorian in High School and earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Major in Management, from Saint Jude College, Manila, as Summa Cum Laude. His undergraduate years were distinguished by a full academic scholarship and multiple leadership and proficiency awards. He continued this tradition of excellence at the University of Santo Tomas, where he was an academic scholar while pursuing his Juris Doctor degree. In 2019, he earned his Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Southville International School and Colleges, graduating at the very top of his class. He was awarded the Highest Honors, received the distinguished Meritissimus Award, and triumphed as Best in Thesis - an extraordinary sweep of the institution’s most coveted academic distinctions. Thrice in his educational path, he attained the highest honors, a testament to his dedication and intellect.
Demonstrating remarkable perseverance in his own academic journey, recently, he finished hi Master of Laws at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines with a General Weighted Average of 1.145 and awarded as Best Thesis Presenter for his research entitled: “One Rule to Rule Them All: Legal Practitioners’ Perspective on Navigating Procedural Labyrinth of Quasi-Judicial and Administrative Agencies for Access to Justice”.
At just 25 years old, Atty. Melitante was admitted to the Philippine Bar launching a legal career characterized by both breadth and depth. He is also a licensed real estate broker and a licensed financial advisor, underscoring his multifaceted expertise.
His professional journey is anchored by his role as Managing Partner of Melitante Aguihap Solomon Law Office (MASLAW) since 2016, where he specializes in litigation across civil, criminal, family, tax, labor, and collection cases, serving both individual and corporate clients. His leadership extends to the corporate world as President of Integrated Collection Solutions, Inc., and as a longstanding Corporate Secretary for Functional Inc. Prior to being an esteemed Managing Partner, he first joined the prestigious firms of The Law Firm of Chan Robles and Associates, and Saulog and De Leon Law Offices.
Atty. Melitante’s unwavering dedication to legal education stands as a testament to his profound commitment to shaping future legal minds. For an impressive 15 years, he has been a pillar of academic excellence, serving as both professor and thesis adviser at Southville International School and Colleges as well as Southville Foreign University-De Montfort University. Additionally, his role as a part-time professor at Adamson University highlights his relentless passion for imparting knowledge in business law, labor law, and industrial relations management. His enduring pursuit of legal scholarship powerfully underscores his exceptional dedication to both teaching and continuous learning.
Atty. Melitante is not only an intellectual but also a passionate badminton and cycling enthusiast. He brilliantly channels his business acumen into his own venture, ATTYG THE BOTTLE SHOP, a neighborhood liquor store with three branches in Parañaque and Las Piñas City. This establishment offers an extraordinary social experience, combining a welcoming atmosphere with delightful delicacies, truly embodying its tagline, “Any Thing To Your Goodness.”
Throughout his career, Atty. Melitante has combined legal acumen with a passion for teaching and public service. His private practice, now in its 17th year, is complemented by his active involvement in legal consultancy for both government and private entities. His story is one of perseverance, intellectual rigor, and a steadfast commitment to justice and education-qualities that continue to define his professional and personal life.
