Ateneo Law School opens Academic Year 2025–2026 with Introduction to Law

The Ateneo Law School formally opened the Academic Year 2025–2026 with the start of its Introduction to Law (ITL) program on 7 July 2025. More than 300 incoming first-year students commenced their legal education, entering a rigorous program of intellectual formation and professional responsibility.

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Atty Ma Ngina Teresa V Chan-Gonzaga, welcomed the students by outlining the scholastic standards, policies, and academic support systems that define Ateneo’s legal education. She also led the community in commemorating the birth anniversary of Fr Joaquin G Bernas SJ, who would have turned 93 on 8 July 2025. As a former Dean and one of the principal framers of the 1987 Constitution, Fr Bernas remains a towering figure in Philippine legal education. His legacy continues to shape the values and mission of the Ateneo Law School.

Dean Jose Maria G Hofileña spoke to the students about the character and commitments expected of an Atenean lawyer, emphasizing excellence, integrity, and service. He encouraged students to reflect not only on what the law is but also on whom the law serves.

In the afternoon, students sat for their first assessment, a digest-writing exercise, marking the beginning of their training in legal method and reasoning. The assessment introduces students to the discipline of close reading, analysis, and synthesis of judicial decisions.

This year’s ITL also continues the Law School’s longstanding commitment to mentorship. Over the next two weeks, each student will be paired with a practicing Ateneo lawyer, judge, or justice. These mentors will lead small group sessions on legal research, writing, and argumentation, giving students both academic guidance and insight into the lived realities of legal practice.

Following these preparatory activities, students will begin their onsite classes on 21 July 2025. ITL remains a foundational part of Ateneo Law's mission to form lawyers who are not only skilled in the law but deeptly grounded in conscience, compassion, and a commitment to justice.