As part of the Clinical Legal Education Program I (CLEP 1) course, 3rd-year USeP – School of Law students Danielle Anne Caliosan, John Lorie Bacaling, and Niño Miedes went to Barangay Ilomavis, Kidapawan City, to impart legal knowledge about Katarungang Pambarangay. This was headed by their Supervising Lawyer, Attorney Jesus Villardo III, and also the Legal Aid Center Director. USeP-School of Law has a current program on access to justice which is being supported by the UNOPS GOJUST Project.
Through the initiative of Barangay Captain Jimmy Mantawil, the activity was participated in by officers from the Philippine National Police to discuss the procedural aspect of settling issues within the community. As part of the Law Enforcement pillar of justice, the PNP highlighted that filing a case before their office is one of the options readily available for them to ensure that justice is served and those who did wrong are appropriately corrected.
However, it is crucial to dispel the misconception that filing a case is the only remedy for settling disputes. The Katarungang Pambarangay, coupled with conflict-sensitive approaches and recognition of customary laws operating in the barangay, offers equally important remedies. This system allows for the resolution of community disputes without the need for the often lengthy, expensive, and adversarial court process.
The USeP School of Law is committed to shaping its students into legal professionals who understand the importance of conflict sensitivity in resolving legal issues. This dedication was evident in their active participation in the activity held last July 25, 2024, at the Barangay Hall grounds of Brgy. Ilomavis, Kidapawan City.
In attendance during the activity were the different Barangay Officials, Lupong Tagapamayapa members, representatives from women’s group, and members of the Council of Elders of the Manobo Apao Descendants Ancestral Domain of Mount Apo (MADADMA).
#USePSoL
#USePCARES
#WeBuildDreamsWithoutLimits
#TransformingLivesAndCommunities

• 
•