Ateneo School of Government concludes successful online course "The 1987 Constitution for Non-Lawyers"

The Ateneo School of Government (ASoG), through its Executive Education Program, successfully conducted an online training course on “The 1987 Constitution for Non-Lawyers” on 16 November 2024. This course was developed in response to the highly commended webinar, “Unlocking the 1987 Constitution: A Practical Guide for Everyday Citizens” held on 11 September 2024.

Atty Michael Henry Yusingco, a distinguished Senior Research Fellow at the Ateneo Policy Center, law lecturer at the University of Asia & the Pacific School of Law, and a Constitutionalist, facilitated the course. Participants represented a diverse range of sectors from across the country, contributing to a dynamic and enriching session.  

Government participants included representatives from the Philippine Army and Local Government Units of Malay (Aklan), Valenzuela City, Laoang (Northern Samar), and Biñan (Laguna), Department of the Interior and Local Government (Tarlac), Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Sangguniang Kabataan of Quezon City. Private sector representation included Encarnacion Mendoza Fuel Retail Corporation and Shell (San Rafael, Tarlac).

Designed for individuals with little to no legal background, the course focused on key constitutional principles such as the separation of powers, judicial supremacy, local autonomy, and intergovernmental relations, without delving into overly complex legal provisions. Participants gained valuable insights into how the 1987 Constitution serves not only as a legal document but also as a call to action for building a democratic, just, and fair society. Equipped with these insights, participants are now better prepared to contribute to strengthening the rule of law and democracy, especially as the nation approaches the upcoming elections.

Ms Sharon Grace S Yabut, Head of the Executive Education Program, opened the program by emphasizing the timeliness and relevance of the course in light of the upcoming elections. She highlighted how understanding the Constitution empowers individuals to make informed decisions and hold public officials accountable. Closing the program, Dr Philip Arnold P Tuaño, Dean of ASoG, expressed his hope that the Constitution would serve as a guide to fostering accountable governance, transparency, and active citizenship. He also challenged participants to integrate these values into their professional and personal lives.

With the successful conclusion of this course, the Executive Education Program team wraps up its publicly offered programs for 2024. Stay tuned for announcements about future courses, as ASoG remains committed to empowering citizens and leaders with the tools to strengthen democracy and make a sustainable impact on communities.

To learn more about upcoming courses or register for future programs, email us at execed.asog@ateneo.edu