National Movement of Young Legislators holds special executive legal course for 2nd batch of participants at Ateneo Law

The Ateneo School of Law, with the National Movement of Young Legislators (NYML), recently hosted a three-day seminar designed to enhance the understanding and skills of local legislators in addressing contemporary legal issues. The seminar, held from 24 to 26 April, focused on topics ranging from human rights in the digital age, laws on anti-graft and corrupt practices, public-private partnerships, legislative drafting, and local taxation.

The seminar opened with remarks from Atty Ma. Ngina Teresa Chan-Gonzaga, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, who emphasized the importance of ongoing education in law for addressing challenges by legislators.

The first session, led by Atty Ray Paolo Santiago, tackled critical issues concerning the right to privacy and freedom of expression in the digital age, highlighting recent controversies and the need for updated laws to keep pace with technological advancements.

The second session, presented by Atty Ronald Chua, delved into the local concerns related to laws on anti-graft and corrupt practices. This session provided valuable insights into the complexities of enforcing integrity among public officials and the role of legal frameworks in curbing corruption.

On the same day, Atty. Eugenio Villareal presented the first part of a seminar on legislative drafting and advocacy, which drew significant interest from attendees eager to refine their skills in drafting effective and enforceable legislation.

The program on the second day was dominated by sessions from Atty Alberto Agra, who led discussions on administrative law, local government law, and public-private partnership law, all tailored for local legislators. His presentations aimed to strengthen the administrative capacities and strategic planning of local governments.

On the third day, Atty Michael Montero, presented Local Taxation Matters. This session addressed the intricacies of local taxation laws and provided the participants with practical strategies to enhance revenue collection while ensuring compliance and fairness.

The seminar concluded with a graduation ceremony where participants received certificates of completion.

The closing ceremonies featured a series of notable speakers including Atty Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan, the founding president of the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL), who delivered the keynote message. Atty Mary Marjorie P.Martin, the National Vice President for Luzon & Tuguegarao City Councilor, gave her message of thanks. Assistant Secretary Elizabeth Lopez-De Leon from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) spoke on the role of community participation in governance, reinforcing the seminar's focus on enhancing public administration. Councilor Marlon Alejandrino, President of the National Movement of Young Legislators, gave his inspirational message. Dean Jose Maria Hofileña of the Ateneo School of Law gave the concluding remarks.

The event not only provided an educational platform but also fostered a network among local legislators, legal professionals, and experts in public governance, with the shared goal of improving lawmaking and administration to better serve the Filipino people.