29/05/2025
𝐑𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐚𝐫, 𝐓𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫: 𝐍𝐃𝐌𝐔 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐚𝐰 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐉𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐃𝐨𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬
Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) College of Law recently held its formal graduation rites, honoring nine Juris Doctor graduates in a solemn and inspiring ceremony. The event brought together students, faculty, alumni, families, and distinguished guests to celebrate the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and a shared commitment to justice.
The program opened with heartfelt greetings from the University President, Bro. Paterno S. Corpus, FMS, Ed.D., who congratulated the graduates and reminded them of NDMU’s mission to form professionals who are not only competent in their fields but also compassionate and committed to the common good.
Class Salutatorian Ms. Venus Lyka E. Lomocso, CPA, JD, took the stage to introduce the class valedictorian, Paul Randy P. Gumanao, RCh, JD. In his address, Mr. Gumanao reflected on the shared journey of their batch, urging his fellow graduates to move forward with purpose and unity. “Let us not row fast, but far. Not alone, but together,” he said, reminding that the pursuit of justice is a long voyage best navigated in solidarity.
Hon. Josie A. Felipe then introduced the ceremony’s keynote speaker, Senior Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, Marvic Mario Victor F. Leonen. In a powerful and thought-provoking commencement address, Justice Leonen spoke on the judiciary’s strategic shift in response to digitalization, underscoring the need for innovative and ethical leadership in the legal profession. He challenged the graduates to think beyond legality and embrace justice as the higher goal. “What is legal may not necessarily be just, but what is just should become legal,” he said. He also cautioned against the trap of material excess, stating, “Having enough is good,” and closed with a powerful call for self-liberation: “Walang ibang magpapalaya sa atin kundi tayo mismo.” (No one will liberate us but ourselves).
The presentation of candidates for graduation was led by College of Law Dean, Atty. Paisal D. Tanjili, LL.M., who proudly endorsed the nine Juris Doctor graduates. University President, Bro. Paterno S. Corpus, FMS, Ed.D., then conferred the degrees and awarded the diplomas, formally marking the graduates’ entry into the legal profession.
Academic and special distinctions were awarded next, celebrating the outstanding achievements of members of the graduating class. The program also recognized the vital role of institutional partnerships in legal education. Atty. Rene M. Barrion, Director of Legal Aid and Community Extension, acknowledged the Continuing Legal Education Program (CLEP) partners, including the South Cotabato Rehabilitation and Detention Center, Public Attorney’s Office - Koronadal District Office, Commission on Human Rights - Region XII, Office of the Provincial Prosecutor - South Cotabato, Office of the Vice Governor - South Cotabato, City Legal Office - Koronadal, and Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court Br. 43, Koronadal City, Hon. Gerardo C. Braganza, whose support provided practical experience and mentorship to the students.
Following this, Atty. Ryan J. Alair, REB, REA, a Juris Doctor alumnus, presided over the induction ceremony of the graduates into the Notre Dame of Marbel University Juris Doctor Alumni Association. He also administered the Pledge of Loyalty, underscoring the perpetual obligation to uphold the law with integrity and dedication.
Atty. Sylvie Blanche F. Tandog, the Director for Student Affairs and Publication, delivered the closing acknowledgements, expressing deep appreciation to the faculty, families, and institutional partners who stood by the graduates throughout their journey.
Following the formal ceremonies, a heartfelt send-off party was held as a tribute not only to the graduates, now barristers, but also to their parents and families. Organized by the NDMU College of Law community, the celebration served as a joyful expression of gratitude, unity, and hope for the future that lies ahead.
Written by: Czaren Jane T. Abalos
Photo by: Light Image Studios
