01/09/2025
๐๐ฆ๐ข๐๐ฎ๐ฌ ๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ข๐๐: ๐๐ก๐๐ง ๐๐๐ฐ ๐๐๐๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ก
Law school is often described as a demanding journey that tests intellect, discipline, and resilience under relentless pressure. On August 30, 2025, the Amicus Curiae event, themed โThe Intersection of Law and Mental Health,โ served as a timely reminder that behind every aspiring lawyer is a human being facing challenges both inside and outside the classroom.
The event officially started with remarks from Atty. Sylvie Blanche F. Tandog. She reminded the students that the lessons in this event go beyond the walls of law school โ as they will serve as guiding lights for future endeavors where challenges never cease.
From the standpoint of those who once sat in the same chairs, Atty. Mary Methyl Joy B. Gabiazon, CPA, part of the pioneer batch of Marist Lawyers of NDMU, shared not only wisdom but also the truth of pursuing the dream of becoming a lawyer. She unraveled the importance of choosing study materials wisely to avoid being overwhelmed, of crafting answers that are responsive and examiner-friendly, and of being concise without sacrificing substance. She stressed that โYourself is your greatest enemy and at the same time your best ally.โ In those words, she cast light upon the reality of law school โ a battle of self-doubt, stress, resilience, and determination.
Atty. Gabiazon further reminded the students that while support systems do not eradicate the trials and tribulations of law school, they make the journey bearable. She added that it is equally crucial to rest โ to allow oneself to unwind without guilt, to pause, and to recharge. Law school is not a sprint but a marathon โ one that must be taken slowly, yet continuously.
The event concluded with a message from Atty. Paisal D. Tanjili, LL.M, the Dean of the College of Law. He expressed his appreciation to the Student Council, the Honors Society, and Lex Marista for their collaborative efforts in organizing the program, as well as to Atty. Tandog for leading this effort. He stressed the importance of teamwork, emphasizing that in law school, we draw strength by being together.
The Amicus Curiae event reminds us that to pursue the law is not to abandon oneโs well-being, but to protect it as fiercely as we would protect the rights of others.
Written by: JB Forro
Photos by: Justine Lumingkit