From the legal "bunso" to Lady Justice's baby in the womb

To the 2013 Bar Candidates:

One last push, one last fight, never give up for victory is in sight. After tomorrow, there are no second chances. There are no second tries. Claim it, the glory was laid before you to take.

As I intimated it with the Tamaraw barristers during the 2013 Send-off, allow me to share these words to you.

Reviewing for the Bar, IT IS EASY!

Taking the Bar, IT IS EASIER!

Passing the Bar, IT IS THE EASIEST!

Question: If everything is EASY, what then is HARD?!

Answer: The hardest part is deciding to take the Bar, and that hard decision did not occur four Saturdays ago; that decision did not happen when you started the review; that decision did not materialize when you graduated from law school.

Your decision to take the Bar was made four or five years ago when you dreamed to become a lawyer someday and enrolled in law school. 

Today is your moment of glory! I am one of those who shall be cheering loudly for you all when you hurdle this day! 

Kudos!

Lawyer's Oath

I, IAN DELA CRUZ ENCARNACION of CAVITE CITY, do solemnly swear that I will maintain allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines, I will support the Constitution and obey the laws as well as the legal orders of the duly constituted authorities therein; I will do no falsehood, nor consent to the doing of any in court; I will not wittingly or willingly promote or sue any groundless, false or unlawful suit, nor give aid nor consent to the same; I will delay no man's cause for money or malice, and will conduct myself as a lawyer according to the best of my knowledge and discretion, with all good fidelity as well to the courts as to my clients; and I impose upon myself these voluntary obligations without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion. So help me God.

Year of Faith

On the Year of Faith, I shall renew my baptismal vows later today at the same church where I was baptized, which is coincidentally on the same day I was baptized 27 years ago! I have a purpose in this world! And this is how my Savior has communicated it to me.

I am but a servant in the vineyard. Who am I to disobey my Maker! I am ready to fulfill my purpose.

I shall be at St. Mary Magdalene Church, Kawit, Cavite, 1930H.

Atty. Ian dela Cruz Encarnacion

I am unworthy but chosen.

I am just an ordinary man that was given an extraordinary task as an apostle in the temple of justice, an advocate for the welfare of the many, and a protector of the rights of the oppressed, the poor, and the weak. With so many injustices in the world, I can only repay the Lord for the favor He gave me with so much. Therefore, when I take my oath, this I add to the list of pledges all lawyers swear before the members of the Court - that no matter how hard it will be, I shall take the cause against injustice even if it means my life. No man shall be denied his rightful representation. And I shall be as ardent in court as in life.

To all those who greeted me via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and E-mail, and those who called and texted me yesterday, today and tomorrow, thank you po. Salamat sa panalangin at paniniwala sa akin. Mas may tiwala pa kayo na papasa ako kaysa sa sarili ko. Again, thank you!

To my parents, Mommy Nanette and Daddy Manuel, thank you for giving me the opportunity to be where I am today. All I did was because of you. Thank you! I love you!

To my brother Manuel Encarnacion III, sisters Nouelle and Marionne, thank you for being my sources of inspiration.

To my grandparents and other relatives, thank you for your support and faith. Thank you for your prayers.

To my teachers and professors, from kinder, elementary, high school, college and law school, I would not be where I am today if not for you! There would be no Atty. Ian Encarnacion WITHOUT YOU! No words can describe my deep sense of profound gratitude for your teachings. I hope to make you proud of me as a student.

To my friends and classmates, this is it! You know Ian the person, not Ian the lawyer. Nothing will change friends. Nadagdagan lang ng apat na letra at isang tuldok ang pangalan ko. Ako pa rin to, si Kulot na kaibigan niyo!

To my fraternity brothers, salamat brods. Special mention lang ang iba, my batchmates sa Lex Septem Bene, mga anak ko sa fraternity Oceans 11, Mythical 5, Double Action and Ballers, Brod Dong Tumuran who allowed me to use his condominium for free, my bar buddy Joshua Polido, and those who believed and trusted me more than I trust myself, Mabuhay kayo Brods! Mabuhay ang TAU KAPPA PHI!

To everyone, thanks. Mahirap po at paisa isa ko tlga kayo pinapasalamatan kaya medyo tumatagal ang reply. Pasensya na po, mahina ang kalaban. Muli po, sa kaibuturan ng aking puso, salamat!

To my co 2012 barristers who did not make it, laban lang ulit. Resbakan natin ang Supreme Court sa pagpapahirap sa atin. They are merely obstacles in our dreams. Whenever obstacles are in the way, tell it straight. My dreams are bigger than you, and my God is the biggest of my backers. With Him, no obstacle stands a chance. I'll be praying and fighting for you this 2013.

Finally to God and Mama Mary, thank you! My Bar quest is of Divine Providence! I shall not waste your gifts. Everything for the greater glory of God!

Atty. Ian dela Cruz Encarnacion, now signing off for tonight! +AMDG

2012 Bar Exam Results

Congratulations to my fellow 948 pañeros/pañeras (passing percentage of 17.76%) who passed the 2012 bar examination. A total of 5,686 examinees took the 2012 bar exam, with only 5,343 who finished the four Sundays of October 2012.

Topnotchers of the 2012 Bar Exams

1. Ignatius Michael Ingles (85.64%; Ateneo)
2. Catherine King Kay (84.72%; Ateneo)
3. April Carmela Lacson (84.45%; UP)
4. Xavier Jesus Romualdo (84.10%; Ateneo)
5. Maria Graciela Base (83.99%; UP)
5. Jose Maria Machuca (83.99%; Ateneo)
6. Patrick Henry Salazar (83.71%; UP)
7. Ralph Karlo Barcelona (83.43%; Aquinas University)
8. Marvyn Llamas (83.29%; Ateneo)
9. Carlo Martin Li (83.27%; Ateneo)
10. Francis Paolo Tiopanco (83.25%; UP)

Full list of passers:

1. A JOSE- AGUSTIN, Karren
2. ABASTILLAS, Lemuel
3. ABERIN, Ma. Christine
4. ABES, Royce Nieville
5. ABRENZOSA, Cleofe
6. ABUAN, Ruby Ryza
7. ACEDO, Kristian Josef
8. ACORDA, Jacqueline
9. ACOSTA, Lourdes Mae
10. ACOSTA, JR., Gil
11. ACUÑA, Jose Fidel
12. ADAN, Jan Mari
13. ADAP, Sanawia
14. AGANA, III, Carlos Ivan
15. AGATEP, Pia Augustha
16. AGBAY-ABILAR, Janice
17. AGBON, Ma. Cecelia Esperanza
18. AGOPITAC, Nestle
19. AGUAVIVA, Ava Marie
20. AJES-LAURENTE, Lilibeth
21. ALAMEDA, Abigail
22. ALAWI, JR., Saipal
23. ALBANO, Pia Ursula
24. ALBANO, Ranvylle
25. ALBAS, Dominique
26. ALBINA, Dionel
27. ALBOTRA, Tet Chea
28. ALCANTARA, Austin Claude
29. ALCANTARA, Rickmon Albert
30. ALCERA, II, Hermie
31. ALDOVINO, Marian Mae
32. ALEJANDRE, Pauline
33. ALFELOR, JR., Avelino
34. ALI, JR., Lanang
35. ALIM, Nicolito Jesus
36. ALIVIA, Mikhail Sherard
37. ALMARIO, Ann Therese
38. ALMENDRAL, Chrizellie
39. ALMIREZ, Hanna Maria Nica
40. ALOJADO, Carlo Enrico
41. ALVAREZ, Aila May
42. ALVAREZ, Maria Margarita
43. ALVERO, Marierose
44. AMADOR, Tina Andrea
45. AMAN, Takahiro Kenjie
46. AMARO, Ana Mae
47. AMBROCIO, Ma. Carmencita
48. AMSAN, Munib
49. ANDAWI, Melody
50. ANDRION, Jofre
51. ANG, Kathleen Mae
52. ANG, JR., Rodolfo
53. ANGELES, Raul
54. ANTIGUA, Perseus
55. ANTONIO, Rafael
56. APALISOK, JR., Simplicio
57. APARTE, Frances Margaret
58. APORTADERA, Mario Leonardo Emilio
59. AQUENDE, Joseph Angelo Wesley
60. ARANAS, Kim
61. ARCEO, Irene
62. ARCEO, Mariam
63. ARCEÑO, Jackielyn
64. ARDIENTE, Arnold
65. ARELLANO, May Kristine
66. ARIAS, Michelle
67. ARMENTA, Joshua
68. ARQUIZA, Arbee
69. ARQUIZA, Carlo
70. ARRIBA, Mona Liza
71. ARRIOLA, Roanne
72. ARTICONA, Mercedes
73. ARTICULO, Mark Anthony
74. ARTUGUE, Arianne
75. ARUGAY, Manuel Adrian
76. ASPIRAS, Janice
77. ASUNCION, Mark Anthony
78. ASUNTO, Daisy Ray
79. ATANACIO, John David
80. AUGUSTO, Davemark
81. AUSAN, Anniefair
82. AUSTRIA, Carlo
83. AUTENCIO, Anthony
84. AUZA, Jannycer
85. AVILA, Aldan
86. AVILA, Rachelle Faye
87. BABIERA, Jan Christian
88. BACOLOD, Julse
89. BAGAIPO, Cesar
90. BAGATSING, Lea Margarette
91. BAGUIO, Cindy
92. BAGULAYA, Jose Duke
93. BAILAN, Bai Sittie Saida
94. BAINTO, Neal Vincent
95. BAJAS, Joey
96. BAJETA, Jonathan
97. BAKILAN, Bernard
98. BALAGA, Jo Ann
99. BALANQUIT, Raoul Jann
100. BALAORO, Grace
101. BALBA, Zack Hansel
102. BALDOMERO, Ivan Jeffrey
103. BALDOVINO, Aldwin Kenneth
104. BALDOVINO, Alexander
105. BALDOVINO, Tanya Justine
106. BALILI, Neil Aaron
107. BALMES, Irene
108. BALORO, Joemyl
109. BALTAZAR, Ana Lyn
110. BANAYAT-NAS, Hermilia
111. BANDALAN, Jared Anthony
112. BANGHE, Hannah Jane
113. BANZON, Eva
114. BAPTISTA, Joe Allan
115. BARCELONA, Ralph Karlo
116. BARQUEZ, Ma. Elisa Jonalyn
117. BARRIOS, Angelo
118. BASCUGUIN, Maria Jocelyn
119. BASE, Amerissa
120. BASE, Maria Graciela
121. BAUTISTA, Judy-ann
122. BAUTISTA, Krystel Jehan
123. BAUTISTA, Maria Theresa
124. BAYONA, Phoebe Ann
125. BEBER, Dindo
126. BECHAYDA, JR., Jose
127. BEDURAL, Vladimir
128. BENIGIAN, II, Mardovic Dodge
129. BENITEZ, JR., Arcadio
130. BERAY-DE AUSEN, Penelope
131. BERNARDINO, Ramon Felipe
132. BERNARDO, Donna Ametyst
133. BERNARDO, Nicolo
134. BERNARDO, Pallo Mert
135. BIADO, Nazariel
136. BIDAD, Jonelyn
137. BILANGEL, Judy Ann
138. BILIRAN, Amabelle
139. BINARAO, Romael Meng
140. BIRONDO, Francis Ian
141. BLANCIA, Andrei Marion
142. BONDOC, Hector Jerome
143. BONGHANOY, Al
144. BONILLA, Diana Lutgarda
145. BORBON, Mariven
146. BORDON, Maria Janina Ann
147. BORJA, Ma. Arlene
148. BORROMEO, Gabriel Angelo
149. BOTABARA, Theresa
150. BRACERO, II, Wivino
151. BRAGAT, Junrie
152. BRILLANTES, Roselle Louie
153. BRION, Eden
154. BRIONES, Conrado
155. BRIONES, Gerald
156. BRONCE, Roentgen
157. BUAGÑIN, Venice
158. BUENAVENTURA, Ma. Clarissa Hearty
159. BUENAVENTURA, Roberto Martin
160. BULOTANO, Ronnie
161. BULSECO, Khristine Gail
162. BUSTOS, Adrian Francis
163. CABANTING, Gil Matthew
164. CABANTUD, Racel
165. CABATINGAN, Justine Mae
166. CABI, Romina Aina
167. CABIEDES, Rodrigo
168. CABRERA, Fernando Juan
169. CABRERA, John Patrick
170. CACHAPERO, JR., Oliver
171. CADABUNA, Marvin Jay
172. CADDAWAN-PANCHO, Julaida
173. CAHAYAG, Rommel
174. CAIBAN, Lee Ferdinand
175. CAJUCOM, Oscar Carlo
176. CALAG, Welan
177. CALALANG, Mary Bianca
178. CALAMAY, Cesar Norman
179. CALDERINI, Charmaine
180. CALDERON, Abegail Joan
181. CALINGASAN, Charlene Mae
182. CALMA-CHAN, Gabriela
183. CALUAG, Edmond
184. CALVAN, Myrtle
185. CAMACHO, Gianfrancis
186. CAMACHO, Paolo Francisco
187. CAMAGANACAN, Emelie
188. CAMISO, Aldous Benjamin
189. CAMUA, Mariacarla
190. CANDELARIA, Marissa
191. CANTILLAS, Irish Claire
192. CANTOS, Rj
193. CAPANAS, Jovalie Claire
194. CAPELLAN, Marina Victoria
195. CARANDANG, Ma. Buenafe
196. CARBONELL, Rhea Joy
197. CARDIÑO, Gian Carlo
198. CARDONA, Sarah Jeane
199. CARILLO, Marc Jay
200. CARINGAL-DE CASTRO, Maria Yvet
201. CARLOBOS, Princess Christine
202. CARPIO, Menachem
203. CARTAGENA, Philipp King
204. CASADOR, Angeli Ness
205. CASALS, Detchie
206. CASIBANG, JR., Ruben
207. CASIDSID-PORTENTO, Regina
208. CASIO, Jo Ann Marie
209. CASISON-DUNGCA, Maricel
210. CASTILLO, Beverly
211. CASTILLO, Dante
212. CASTILLO, Mark Erwin
213. CASTRO, Joanne Frances
214. CASTRODES, Kristine Joyce
215. CASUELA, Nathaniel Joseph
216. CATACUTAN, Richard
217. CATACUTAN, JR., Felicisimo
218. CATALAN, Jo-am
219. CATALUÑA-RENEGADO, Catherine
220. CATULONG, Zacharias
221. CAYABAN, Iva Freyritz Erica
222. CAYCO, Natasha
223. CAYCO, Victor Carlo Antonio
224. CAÑARES, Vhincent
225. CAÑETE, Stephen Roy
226. CEDEÑO, Jessa Mary Ann
227. CERIALES, Roni
228. CHAN, Christian
229. CHAN, Clifford
230. CHAN, Jereline
231. CHAVES, Carla Michelle
232. CHING, May Ann
233. CHINTE, Mary Eileen
234. CHU, Kristine Paula
235. CHUA, Sacel Anne
236. CINCO, Abegail Marie
237. CLAUDIO, Joanne Lucille Germaine
238. CLAUDIO, Kristoffer
239. CLAUDIO, Lesley Anne
240. CLEDERA, Kim Debra
241. COMA, Joanne Marie
242. CONCEPCION, Irene Charmaine
243. CONCEPCION, Robin Bryan
244. CONDE, Fiona
245. CONDE, Maricar
246. CONVOCAR, Daniel Luis
247. CORESIS, Ma. Katrina
248. CORPUZ, Danielle Sigfreid
249. CORPUZ, Grazielynne
250. CORRALES, Michael John
251. CORSAME-FUENTES, Gazzelenne
252. COVARRUBIAS, Jose Janello
253. CRISOSTOMO, Jaim Mari
254. CRUZ, Emmanuel Rey
255. CRUZ, Gino Carlo
256. CRUZ, Jennifer Anne Marie
257. CRUZ, Keneth Joyce
258. CRUZ, Niño Martin
259. CRUZ, Roxanne Joan
260. CUARTERO, Dave
261. CUBA, Margareth Kristel
262. CUBERO, Ronald
263. CUBILLAN, Asis
264. CUCHAPIN, Mykedox Knoel
265. CUEVAS, Dyan Marie
266. CUI, Rosabel
267. CURADA, Yul Bernie
268. CURAMMENG, Jessieh Rey
269. CUSTODIO, Daniel Ben
270. DANCE, Kristoffer Lee
271. DAPITON, Roel
272. DAQUIOAG, Florence
273. DE ANDRES, JR., Gabriel
274. DE CHAVEZ, Marc Roby
275. DE CHAVEZ-ALEDO, Sharon
276. DE DUMO, Jilliane Joyce
277. DE GUZMAN, Arjel
278. DE GUZMAN, Michael
279. DE GUZMAN, Robert Josef
280. DE GUZMAN, Steven Michael
281. DE LA CRUZ, Christian
282. DE LEON, Jose
283. DE LOS REYES, Dianne Margarette
284. DE LOS SANTOS, Christian Loren
285. DE MESA, Beverly Elvy
286. DE VERA, Ma. Christine Fel
287. DE VERA, II, Rustico
288. DE VILLA, Rhodora
289. DEJARME, Doreen
290. DEL ROSARIO, Joseph Carl
291. DELA CALZADA, Renato
292. DELA CRUZ, Gerald
293. DELA CRUZ, Glenna Mari
294. DELA CRUZ, Vann Allen
295. DELA CUESTA, Rogie
296. DELA PEÑA, Toni Carla
297. DELOS SANTOS, Lilian
298. DEOMPOC, Mary Khristel
299. DEVERATURDA, Joan Paula
300. DIALINO, Karen
301. DIAZ, Mario Vincent
302. DIESMOS, Angelo Ted
303. DIESTO, Jovian
304. DIGO, Jerry
305. DIMACULANGAN, Roberto Miguel
306. DIMAFELIX, II, Alfredo
307. DIMATATAC, Edwin
308. DIMSON, Caira Joyce
309. DIOKNO, Angelo
310. DISPO, D’lorenz Miro
311. DIZON, Justinne
312. DOCENA, Hans Christian
313. DOGWE-RAMIREZ, Marifi
314. DOMINGO, Frances Yani
315. DOMINGUEZ, Ilyn
316. DONATO, Carol
317. DORIA, Dianne
318. DU, Minister Moises
319. DUAZO, Rose Shayne
320. DUCUSIN, Alejandro
321. DULAY-MARCOS, Vicky Runa
322. DUMAGAT, Maricon
323. DUMALAY, Marichriz
324. DUNUAN, Brionelle La Realesa
325. DY, Frederick
326. ELEAZAR, Armand Dietrich
327. ELGO, Phil Ephraim
328. ELTANAL, Felwin Rau
329. ENAD, Rajiv
330. ENCABO, III, Melchisedech
331. ENCARNACION, Ian
332. ENCARNACION, Mark Francis
333. EPE, Evan
334. ERMINO, Augusto Ceasar
335. ESCALONA, Leo Miguel
336. ESCATRON, Karie
337. ESCOBER, Carlo
338. ESCUETA, Leonard
339. ESMENDA, Alvin
340. ESMERALDA, Patrick
341. ESPARCIA, Janis Louis
342. ESPARRAGO, Sheldon
343. ESPINA, Corin Celeste
344. ESPINOSA, Ron Ely
345. ESPIRITU, Harvey Rhey
346. ESPIRITU, Leah Eloisa
347. ESPIRITU, Paula
348. ESQUIVIAS, Joaquin Pablo
349. ESTIGOY, Karene Maneka
350. ESTRADA-ALCANTARA, Maria Socorro
351. ESTRELLA, Eric
352. EVAN, Noel
353. EVANGELISTA, Carlo Eduardo
354. EX, Doyle
355. EÑANO, Carissa Ann
356. FABUL, Joseph Vincent
357. FAJARDO, Celerina Rose
358. FAJARDO, Idamae
359. FAJARDO, Jan Ale
360. FATALLA, Dave Florenz
361. FEDERIO, Maria Desiree
362. FELICES, Rachel Marie
363. FELICIA, Luz Angela
364. FELIPE, Eduardo
365. FELIX, Peter Anthony Joseph
366. FERIA, Jerome Christopher
367. FERNANDO, Angelo
368. FERRAREN, Ryan
369. FERRER, Rosette
370. FLORES, Raymund Jonas
371. FLORES, Soleil
372. FLORES, II, Lester Jay Alan
373. FOLLO, Dennis
374. FONTANILLA, Viktor Samuel
375. FRAGANTE, Francis
376. FRANCISCO, Jeremiah
377. FRANCISCO, Jose Ma. Jason
378. FULGENCIO, Genesis
379. GABITO, Garry
380. GABOR-TOLENTINO, Joy Marie
381. GADIT, Earl
382. GALANG, John Paul
383. GALICIA, Gene Franco
384. GALLEVO-BAMBO, Majella Theresa
385. GALMAN, Franklin Gerard
386. GALVEZ, Edmund Cyril
387. GALVEZ, Jerico Angelo
388. GAMO, Ciselie Marie
389. GANASI, Dante
390. GANDO, Jovi Louie
391. GARCIA, Jan David
392. GARCIA, Junnar
393. GARCIA, Ron Michael
394. GARCINEZ, Paolo Gonzalo
395. GARRIDO, Kinni Albert
396. GATCHALIAN, Kate Carra
397. GATDULA, Genesis
398. GAYANILO, Brian
399. GENON, Aero Jel
400. GEOCANIGA, Gene Pedmon
401. GERNALE, Jay
402. GERVACIO, Diana
403. GIGANTONE, Maria Riza Lea
404. GILBUENA, Francis Conrad
405. GINGOYON, Laiza Kristel
406. GO, David Michael
407. GO, Marie Michelle
408. GO, Paolo Angelo
409. GOC-ONG, Lara May
410. GODINEZ, Jose Mari
411. GOMEZ, Ace
412. GOMEZ, Joni
413. GOMEZ, Mikhail Josef
414. GONZAGA, Odessa Grace
415. GONZALES, Christian
416. GONZALES, Jenny
417. GONZALES, Kristine Carmela
418. GONZALES, Nil Ryan
419. GORDULA, Xavier Elbert
420. GOYENA, Ma. Flor De Lis
421. GRANADO, Glenbelle
422. GUANGCO, Ma. Veronica
423. GUERRA, Blesscille
424. GUERRERO, Alan Martin
425. GUERRERO, Katrina Elena
426. GUEVARA, Kristine Bernadette
427. GUILLERMO, Maica
428. GUINOMLA, Mohammad Jamaludin
429. GUINTO, Celeni Kristine
430. GUMBAN, Margaret Rose
431. GUMBAN, Vanessa
432. GURREA, Fay Irene
433. GUTIERREZ, Eva Marie
434. GUZMAN, Jeffvince
435. HADLOCON, Fatima Faye
436. HASSANI, Mary Sayeh
437. HEREDIA, Criselda
438. HERMOSURA, Chasmeneth
439. HERNANDEZ, Maria Concepcion
440. HERNANDEZ, Patricia Andrea
441. HILARIO, Dan Raphael
442. HILARIO, Kyndell
443. HINLO, Marco
444. HIPOLITO, Maria Monica
445. HULIGANGA, Lovella May
446. HUMARANG, Jayson
447. HUMILDE, Noemi
448. IBAÑEZ, Jonathan
449. IGNACIO, Christopher John Marcelino
450. ILANO, Jose Angelito
451. IMPERIAL, Ramil
452. IMRAN, Adzlan
453. INCIONG, Jhoan Andrei
454. INDIOLA, Rio Aiko
455. INFANTE, Colleen
456. INGLES, Ignatius Michael
457. INLAO, Charle Magne
458. IRANZO, Kristoffer Edward
459. ISIDRO, Laida May
460. JAAFAR, Faigdar
461. JACOBA, Maria Laviña Rae
462. JARANILLA, David
463. JAVIER, April Rose
464. JAVIER, Carlo Michael
465. JAYME, Joel
466. JOAQUINO, JR., Joseph James
467. JUAN, Vincent
468. JUATCO, Francis
469. JULARBAL, Starr
470. JUSI, Genevieve
471. KALAW, Jenny Kay
472. KATIPUNAN, Andrea
473. KIAMZON, Joyful Josette
474. KING KAY, Catherine Beatrice
475. KO, Patricia
476. KUSAIN-KANSI, Adjuria
477. LA ROSA-MILLARES, Katherine Joy
478. LABADOR, Jed
479. LABIANO, Lester
480. LACAP, Karen Kristi
481. LACEDA, Jovert
482. LACHICA, Lemuel
483. LACNO, Sarah Vanessa
484. LACSON, April Carmela
485. LAGGUI, Marie Hyacinth
486. LAMBINO, Mary Rhauline
487. LAMSEN, Jaenicen
488. LANGIT, Earla Kahlila Mikhaila
489. LANTION, Mell Christopher
490. LANUZO, Ma. Czarina
491. LAO, Michael Stephen
492. LAOHOO, Joyce Elaine
493. LAUROS, Jus
494. LAXAMANA, Aufelene Anne
495. LAYAAN, Geraldine
496. LAZARO, Grace Ann
497. LAZARO, Nicholai Noel
498. LEAL, Lemuel
499. LEDESMA, Leofred Ian
500. LEGASPI, Erwin
501. LEI, John Christopherson
502. LEIDO, Juan Paolo Miguel
503. LELIS, Alexa Marie
504. LENA, Andrew John
505. LEONG-ANUDIN, Leslie Ann
506. LERONA, Lawuel
507. LI, Carlo Martin
508. LIGGAYU, Minehaha
509. LIM, Jhella
510. LIM, Rachelle
511. LIM, Timothy Dalton
512. LIM-MAGTANGGOL, Rachelle
513. LISTONES, Paul
514. LIWAG, Jobelle Joyce
515. LLAMAS, Marvyn
516. LOGROÑO, Princess Jazmine
517. LONDRES, Louie Marie
518. LOPEZ-BALUYUT, Philjoy
519. LORA, Lizette Lou
520. LOTOC, Jeremy
521. LOZADA, Maria Kristile
522. LOZANO, Daphne
523. LU, Antonio Miguel
524. LUCAS, Danjun
525. LUCIANO, Mark Christian
526. LUIB, JR., Ronald
527. LUNA, Myla
528. LUNASCO, Emil
529. MABANTA, Marco Jose Maria
530. MABAZZA, Paolo
531. MACABODBOD, Lou Bryan
532. MACARAEG, Marck Joseph
533. MACARANDANG, Deen Asliah
534. MACARAYAN, Maichel Rick
535. MACHUCA, Jose Maria Angel
536. MADRIDIJO, Marlon
537. MAGCALAS, Felman Gem
538. MAGLINAO, Patrick
539. MALABUYOC, Ichelle
540. MALAGA, Vic Randolf
541. MALALAD, Warren Wesley
542. MALASA, Michelene
543. MALAWANI, Hanaphi
544. MALLANAO, Paul
545. MAMAILAO, Athiena
546. MAMAILAO, Paiza
547. MAMUKID, Michael
548. MANALO, May
549. MANALO, Melchor
550. MANANDEG, Gertrude Gay
551. MANAUIS, JR., Conrado
552. MANCAO, Katrina Michelle
553. MANGSI, Sanchez
554. MANGUBAT, Rex
555. MANIEGO, Catriona Rhiannon
556. MANRIQUE, Bernard
557. MANUEL, Sheila Gene
558. MAQUILAN, Jonathan
559. MARANAN, Maria Carmela
560. MARASIGAN, Nathan
561. MARAÑA, Jonalyn
562. MARCELO, Monica Joy
563. MARCELO, Ronel
564. MARIÑAS, Maria Rosario
565. MARON-MARTIN, Vobbye Jean
566. MAROTO, Ma. Alexandria Ixara
567. MARQUESES, Dan Michael
568. MARQUEZ, JR., Reynaldo
569. MARTIN, Mary Marjorie
570. MARTINEZ, IV, Lorenzo
571. MARTIREZ, Ike
572. MARTY, Frank Edward
573. MASLOG, Ma. Sheryl
574. MATALAM, Jamil Adrian Khalil
575. MATIAS, Serwin
576. MATILDO, JR, Lerdo
577. MAURERA, Katherine
578. MAYUGA, Adrian
579. MAÑEBO, Ferdinand
580. MEDINA, Maria Ana Karina
581. MEJIA, Nina Remedios
582. MEJIA, Venus Amelie
583. MELGAR, III, Josefino
584. MENDOZA, Daniel Angelo
585. MENDOZA, Emaculada Concepcion
586. MENDOZA, Gerardo
587. MENDOZA, Jason
588. MENDOZA, Marychelle
589. MENZON, Anthony
590. MERCADER, Ryan
591. MERIDA, JR., Manuel
592. MILLEZA, Carmel Rosame
593. MILLORA, II, Efren Joe
594. MINA, Iellen Therese
595. MIRANDA-RIMONTE, Ana
596. MIRAVALLES, Samantha
597. MITCHOR, April
598. MONTANO, IV, Julian
599. MONTEMAYOR, Meriam
600. MONTENEGRO, Kutz Melvin
601. MORA, Crisanto
602. MORALES, Armand
603. MORALES, Generick Humprey
604. MORGA, Ryan Calvin
605. MORILLO, Leo Adrian
606. MOTOOMULL-IDULSA, Marian Kanna
607. MUCOY-GRANADOS, Meralie
608. MULI, Katrina
609. MUPAS, Remedios
610. MUTIA, Mohammad Nabil
611. MUÑIZ, Angelo
612. MUÑOZ, Giselle Angelica
613. NAGAÑO, Lord Jayson
614. NAVARRA, Cherrylyn
615. NEJUDNE, Paul
616. NICOLAS, Jerwin
617. NIEMES, Vanessa
618. NIEVES, Jonas
619. NIFRAS, Francis Ariel
620. NOEL, Laura Katrina
621. NOGRALES, Juan Fidel Felipe
622. NONATO, Roselle Jean
623. NOVERAS, Chrsitian
624. NUCUP, Neil
625. NUEVO, Genie Celini
626. NUÑEZ, Jeremie
627. OBIAS, John Dominic
628. OCADO, Allian
629. OCAMPO, Christopher Louie
630. OCAMPO, Gilbert Paolo
631. OCAMPO, Riza Lyn
632. OFANDA, Adonis
633. OLAVERE, Albert
634. OLYMPIA, Abrame-lionel Gamaliel
635. OMOLON, Maila Giselle
636. ONA, Kristel Concepcion
637. ONG, Tracy Anne
638. OPINION, Richard
639. OPOSA, Juan Antonio
640. OPSIMA, Gayle
641. ORAL, Daniel Martin
642. ORATE, Danessa Fayne
643. ORBETA, Frances Grace Allyana
644. ORBITA, Chona
645. ORDOÑEZ, Jaclyn Anne
646. ORTIZ, Edison
647. OSORIO, Rolant Andrie
648. PABLICO, Maria Asuncion
649. PABLICO, My Kristia
650. PACASEM, Ubaida
651. PADER-VILLANUEVA, Carmina Agnes
652. PADILLA, Albert
653. PADILLA JR., Victor
654. PADOGA, Dean Martin
655. PAGADOR, Winston
656. PAGALILAUAN, Edison James
657. PAGLICAWAN, Maria Angelica
658. PALENCIA-UYTENGSU, Maida Joy
659. PALLA, Bartolome
660. PALOMAR, Sunshine
661. PALU-AY, Matias Monico
662. PANA, Melbourne Ziro
663. PANGANIBAN, Victoria
664. PANTIG, Hazel
665. PARADO, Lovely Myrrh
666. PAREJA, Judiel
667. PARUBRUB, Christina
668. PARUNGAO, Ronald
669. PASION, Roseann Claudine
670. PATAUEG, JR., Nicolas
671. PATIÑO, Erica Christel
672. PAVON, Teddy Edmund
673. PAYUMO, Margielyn
674. PAZZIUAGAN, Cheska Ann
675. PEDROSA, JR., Jose Aaron
676. PEGALAN, Ricky Heart
677. PELAEZ, Lawrence Leo
678. PELANDAS, Bryan
679. PELINIO, Norman
680. PELOBELLO, JR., Herminio
681. PERALTA, Romark
682. PERANDOS, Katty Jean Lourdes
683. PERAS, Phoebeth
684. PERDITO, Kristine Jane
685. PEREDO-MILLAN, Cynthia Lyn
686. PEREGRINO-CO, Jaydee
687. PEREZ, Alexander Brian
688. PEREZ, Lilibeth
689. PERNITES, Russel
690. PEÑADA, Joanna May
691. PICZON, Edson
692. PILAR, Sir Achilles
693. PIMENTEL, Joanna Pauline
694. PINILI, Richard
695. PIÑON, Joseph Carlo
696. PLAZA, Leslie Mae
697. PLAZO, Joseph
698. PRADO, Carlos Manuel
699. PRINCIPIO, Pearl Lizza
700. PROCHINA, Mary Avon
701. PUA, Alvin Greg
702. PUA, Moses Eleazar
703. PUERTO, Basil
704. PUGUON, Jener
705. QUESADA, Michael
706. QUEZADA, Peter Paul
707. QUIACHON, Nea Cecille
708. QUIAMBAO, Reinier
709. QUIBO, Grace May
710. QUIBRANZA, Lorraine Anne
711. QUILATES, Donelle Jay
712. QUIMPO, Andro Julio
713. QUINAGORAN, Fidelis Victorino
714. QUINTOS, Beverly Anne
715. QUISUMBING, Julia Francesca
716. RADAZA, Eirah
717. RAFAEL, Marq Azeus
718. RAMEL, Christopher
719. RAMOS, Agatha Kristy
720. RAMOS, Billy James
721. RAMOS, Dave
722. RAMOS, Maridelle
723. RAMOS, Raymond
724. RASO, Karl Vincent
725. RAVELO, Zaide
726. RAYMUNDO, Vir Celito
727. RECIERDO, Mark Francis
728. RECIO, Albee Alliana
729. RECTO, Mark Alvin
730. REMOLACIO, Emmanuel
731. REPOLLO-UY, Alnessa Thea
732. REVALDE, Jeser
733. REVILLA, JR., Rodrigo
734. REYES, Clarisse
735. REYES, Jaymie Ann
736. REYES, Jose Antonio
737. REYES, Maryann Agnes Jertez
738. REYES, Misheil
739. RICAFLANCA, Leizl
740. RICAZA, Michelle Marie
741. RIGODON, Lou Diane
742. RILLERA, Jobert
743. RIVERA, Joonee Randyl
744. ROA-OARDE, Dianne Marie
745. ROBLES, Edgar Michael
746. ROBLES, Sunshine
747. ROCHA, Robert Angelo
748. RODRIGUEZ, Miracle Anne
749. ROJO, Jane Catherine
750. ROLEDA, Danell Lenard
751. ROMEA, George Michael
752. ROMERO, Allan
753. ROMUALDO, Xavier Jesus
754. RONDAL, Jaye Loren
755. ROSALES, Vicente Rafael
756. ROXAS, Juan Paolo
757. RUBINO, Junald
758. RUDAS, Vincent
759. SABADO, Joseph Mario
760. SABAS, Lloyd Francis
761. SABAUPAN, Flor Angela
762. SABORNAY, Ricky
763. SABORNIDO, Noemi
764. SAGARIO, Leo Angelo
765. SAJONIA, Louie
766. SALARZON, Henry Claude Roy
767. SALAZAR, Jerome
768. SALAZAR, Patrick Henry
769. SALCEDO, Anna
770. SALCEDO-PUDPUD, Debbie Love
771. SALEM-INES, Chermibelle
772. SALENDAB, Ayla Herazade
773. SALLIDAO, Eric
774. SALVA, Carlo Emmanuel
775. SALVANI, A.d. Vincent Iv
776. SAMACO, Leo Bernard
777. SAMSON, Martin Luigi
778. SAN DIEGO, JR., Virgilio
779. SAN PEDRO, Leila Grace
780. SANCHEZ, Janer
781. SANCHEZ, Marie Yasmin
782. SANDOVAL, Camhella
783. SANDOVAL, Josephine Grace
784. SANDRINO, Maureen Grace
785. SANGGACALA, Naima
786. SANTAMARIA, Dindo
787. SANTIAGO, Dulce Corazon
788. SANTIAGO, Jefferson
789. SANTIAGO, Philippe Emile
790. SANTOS, Alexander
791. SANTOS, Ana Lorraine
792. SANTOS, Aurelia Beatrice
793. SANTOS, Hanzel
794. SANTOS, Joel
795. SANTOS, Joel
796. SANTOS, Joel Enrico
797. SANTOS, Juan Paolo
798. SANTOS, Karichi
799. SANTOS, Kathleen Mae
800. SANTOS, Melissa Christina
801. SARABOSQUEZ, Justine Keith
802. SARANGAYA, JR., Ismael
803. SARI, Jayson
804. SARONA, JR., Isidro
805. SAYSON, Charlotte Lyza
806. SAZON, Ser Christian
807. SEE, Candice Faye
808. SELLEZA, Suzy Claire
809. SERCADO, Marie Arcie Anne
810. SERENIO, Darlon
811. SERENO, Jose Lorenzo
812. SIA, Emmanuel
813. SIADEN, Nathaniel
814. SIASON-VILLA, Belinda
815. SINGCO, Jamee
816. SINGZON, Maria Eloisa Imelda
817. SIRON, Monica Leonila
818. SISON, Juvin
819. SO, Jelani Carlo
820. SO, Kristina Carmela
821. SOBREPEÑA, Deborah Miriam
822. SOCO, Patrina
823. SOCRATES, Louie
824. SOLEJON, Franie
825. SOLIDON, Ed Rowland
826. SOLIVEN, Jan Vincent
827. SOMOROSTRO, Genaro
828. SORIANO, Raymond Adrian
829. SORIANO, Sarah
830. SORIASO, Louresse Patricia Jane
831. SPALDING, Donn Robert
832. STA. BARBARA, Jesus Erick
833. SUAREZ, Roberto Paolo
834. SUAREZ, Shiela May
835. SULIT, Dioxenos
836. SUMAGAYSAY, Laser Blitz
837. SUMAOY, Dexter Rey
838. SUMIBCAY, Dexter Caesar
839. SUROPIA, Fehma
840. SY, Clarence
841. TABALON, Leonard Lyle
842. TABLADILLO, Stephanie
843. TADIQUE, Roxanne
844. TAGANAS, Olivia
845. TAGUBA, Jezreel Caridad
846. TAGUIAM, Christa Maria
847. TAIB, Najeeb
848. TALLEDO, Harold Christian
849. TAMAYO, Maribel
850. TAMONDONG, Mark Lester
851. TAMONDONG, JR., Eddie
852. TAN, Cheryl Bevin
853. TAN, Maria Theresa
854. TAN, Talitha Renee
855. TANCINCO, Rafael Lorenzo
856. TANCINCO, Roy Shaun
857. TANGCO, Karen Kreez
858. TANSINGCO, Samira Nimfa
859. TANUNTANUM, Erik
860. TAPIA, Mayette
861. TATLONGHARI, Renel
862. TAYHOPON, Kristoffer Ryan
863. TE, Justine
864. TECSON, Janna Mae
865. TEEHANKEE, Ryan Christopher
866. TELAN, John Benedict
867. TINAGAN, James Michael Vincent
868. TING, Camille Sue Mae
869. TIOPIANCO, Francis Paolo
870. TOBIAS, Ana Patricia
871. TOLENTINO, Arc Aldrin
872. TORREFLORES-ALIAN, Connie
873. TORRENTIRA, Rosalio
874. TORRES, Phillip
875. TORRES, Reyjie
876. TRASPORTO, Jose Donel
877. TUGADI, Marifem
878. TUMANDA, Jansyl Lovan
879. TUPAZ, Kristine
880. TUTAAN, Tyrone
881. TY, Evita Grace
882. UBERITA, Joan
883. UDDIN, Zalman
884. URSUA, Melissa Asuncion
885. USON, Adriana Alexis
886. UY, Johan Christian
887. UY, Kim Raisa
888. UY, Rhea
889. VALAQUIO, Ma. Ailyne
890. VALDEZ, Cristina
891. VALDEZ, Maia Chiara Halmen Reina
892. VALDEZ, JR., Edgar
893. VALENCIA, David Evelio
894. VALENTIN, Charmaine
895. VALENTON, Johvie
896. VALERA, Stephen Russel Keith
897. VARGAS, Jacqueline
898. VARGAS, Mona Angela
899. VARON, Iniego Carl
900. VELASCO, Ethelene
901. VELASCO, Lady Ivy Vanity
902. VELOSO, III, Marcelino
903. VENTURA, Mary Grace
904. VENTURA, Ruby Ann
905. VENZUELA, Kristine Ann
906. VERCIDE-LUNA, Jocelyn
907. VERTULFO-ARBOLE, Jovilly Donna
908. VESTIL, Rosalita
909. VICENTE, Nilda
910. VIERNES, JR., Celestino
911. VILLACORTE, Audrey Eunize
912. VILLALOBOS, Melchor
913. VILLALON, Albert Angelo
914. VILLANO, Sheela
915. VILLANUEVA, Carlos Joseph
916. VILLANUEVA, Norliza
917. VILLANUEVA, Ralph Christian
918. VILLANUEVA, Roberto
919. VILLANUEVA, Ronn Michael
920. VILLANUEVA, Tiofilo
921. VILLAR, Viferlyn
922. VIRAY, Joshua
923. VIRTUDAZO, Rilven Christian
924. VIÑAS, Sheiryl
925. WACQUISAN, Ma. Tilde Titina
926. WHITE, Charles Jensen
927. WIEDMER, Patrick Heinz
928. WONG, Joyce Anne
929. YAM, Mark Benjamin
930. YANG, Alarice
931. YANKEE, Jimson
932. YAO, Jacqueline Anne
933. YAP, Cherrylin
934. YAP, Shan Yran
935. YAU, Weny
936. YLADE, Donna Frances
937. YMAS, Priscilla Mae
938. YODICO, II, Rodolfo
939. YOUNG, Michael Wilson
940. YU, Diane Cecilia
941. YU, Stephen
942. ZABALA, Mark Louie
943. ZAFRA, Yolanda
944. ZAMBRANO, Gino Antonio
945. ZAMORAS-VIRTUDAZO, Luz
946. ZAPANTA, Arthur Imanuel
947. ZARAGOZA, Anicka Nicoli
948. ZARENO, Jewelynn Gay
949. ZERNA, Adelaine Faith

15 days to go

In about fifteen days from now, my fraternity batch is about to celebrate our 5th Anniversary. What have I learned since that fateful day, 5 years ago? 

1. Life takes us to places we ought to be at that particular moment.
2. We do not choose who we are, but we can certainly decide who we want to be.
3. There is a purpose and a reason behind every character flaw.
4. We can accept our fate or lose the only chance we have of changing the stars.
5. Not every one we hate eventually become our enemies.

On that day, when I kissed the sun-scorched patch of earth and prostrated myself at the feet of my brethren, I knew then how it was to be beaten at every turn. We received harsh treatment and conquered every pain with superior minds and ferocious hearts. But, we are not charlatans. We can felt pain. Tears fell from erstwhile warriors' eyes and rolled down our cheeks. Battered and bruised, we stood our ground, accepting our fate as it was then.

But it was not in fighting that we received the greatest accolade. It was when we surrendered our will to fight and humbly accepted our predicament that our fate were sealed. By losing ourselves, we have won others. By succumbing to defeat, we have raised our honor. By prostrating to our masters, we have become brothers.

No ordinary man can understand why it is called sweet pain. Only a commoner can. No other commoner can understand why the 17th day of the sixth month of 2007 is precious except the good seven of the law.

We almost died together. But we also conquered forever.

Officially a Law Graduate

Ian dela Cruz Encarnacion, A.B., Ll.B.

Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam et serviam bonum hominem!
For the greater glory of God and service to the good of humanity!

Valedictory Message for the 63rd Fraternity Ball, Induction Ceremonies and Alumni Homecoming

TAU KAPPA PHI, Salute!

Our induction speaker, Brother Justice Danton Bueser, distinguished awardees – Brother Justice Roland Jurado, (Brother Congressman Pidi Barzaga, Brother Mayor Stanley Alegre, Brother Fiscal Jimmy Umpa) and Brother Jim Montealegre, The Immediate Past Grand Chancellor, GC Begit Languisan, Past Grand Chancellors in attendance today, other distinguished brothers in the government and private sectors, other honorees and inductees, my fellow residents, guests, good evening.

The 2011 Rules of the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal

Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ELECTORAL TRIBUNAL
Electoral Tribunal Building
Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City

THE 2011 RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ELECTORAL TRIBUNAL

The House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal hereby adopts and promulgates the following Rules governing its proceedings as the sole judge of all contests relating to the elections, returns and qualifications of Member of the House of Representatives, pursuant to Section 17, Article VI of the Constitution.

TITLE AND CONSTRUCTION

RULE 1. Title. – These Rules shall be known and cited as the 2011 Rules of the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal, or HRET Rules. The word Tribunal whenever used alone or without qualification in these Rules, shall refer to the House of Representative Electoral Tribunal.

RULE 2. Construction. – These Rules shall be liberally constructed in order to achieve a just, expeditious and inexpensive determination and disposition of every contest brought before the Tribunal.

Alumnus Football by Grantland Rice

Bill Jones had been the shining star upon his college team.
His tackling was ferocious and his bucking was a dream.
When husky William took the ball beneath his brawny arm
They had two extra men to ring the ambulance alarm.

Bill hit the line and ran the ends like some mad bull amuck.
The other team would shiver when they saw him start to buck.
And when some rival tackler tried to block his dashing pace,
On waking up, he'd ask, "Who drove that truck across my face?"

Bill had the speed-Bill had the weight-Bill never bucked in vain;
From goal to goal he whizzed along while fragments, strewed the plain,
And there had been a standing bet, which no one tried to call,
That he could make his distance through a ten-foot granite wall.

When he wound up his college course each student's heart was sore.
They wept to think bull-throated Bill would sock the line no more.
Not so with William - in his dreams he saw the Field of Fame,
Where he would buck to glory in the swirl of Life's big game.

Sweet are the dreams of college life, before our faith is nicked-
The world is but a cherry tree that's waiting to be picked;
The world is but an open road-until we find, one day,
How far away the goal posts are that called us to the play.

So, with the sheepskin tucked beneath his arm in football style,
Bill put on steam and dashed into the thickest of the pile;
With eyes ablaze he sprinted where the laureled highway led-
When Bill woke up his scalp hung loose and knots adorned his head.

He tried to run the ends of life, but with rib-crushing toss
A rent collector tackled him and threw him for a loss.
And when he switched his course again and dashed into the line
The massive Guard named Failure did a toddle on his spine.

Bill tried to punt out of the rut, but ere he turned the trick
Right Tackle Competition scuttled through and blocked the kick.
And when he tackled at Success in one long, vicious prod
The Fullback Disappointment steered his features in sod.

Bill was no quitter, so he tried a buck in higher gear,
But Left Guard Envy broke it up and stood him on his ear.
Whereat he aimed a forward pass, but in two vicious bounds
Big Center Greed slipped through a hole and rammed him out of bounds.

But one day, when across the Field of Fame the goal seemed dim,
The wise old coach, Experience, came up and spoke to him.
"Oh Boy," he said, "the main point now before you win your bout
Is keep on bucking Failure till you've worn the piker out!"

"And, kid, cut out this fancy stuff - go in there, low and hard;
Just keep your eye upon the ball and plug on, yard by yard,
And more than all, when you are thrown or tumbled with a crack,
Don't sit there whining-hustle up and keep on coming back;

"Keep coming back with all you've got, without an alibi,
If Competition trips you up or lands upon your eye,
Until at last above the din you hear this sentence spilled:
'We might as well let this bird through before we all get killed.'

"You'll find the road is long and rough, with soft spots far apart,
Where only those can make the grade who have the Uphill Heart.
And when they stop you with a thud or halt you with a crack,
Let Courage call the signals as you keep on coming back.

"Keep coming back, and though the world may romp across your spine,
Let every game's end find you still upon the battling line;
For when the One Great Scorer comes to mark against your name,
He writes - not that you won or lost - but how you played the Game."

The Grand Chancellor's Holiday Message 2010

Cordiales saludo a todos mi hermanos en este tiempo de alegria!

The past year has been fruitful for all of us. We have recruited more able men to join our fold. Our resident and alumni brothers have reached significant milestones in their personal and professional lives. But more importantly, as a fraternity, we have renewed our fraternal bonds through the indomitable TAU KAPPAN spirit that has sustained our existence for nearly 63 years and it shall keep us together for the next 63 years and more.

Holiday 2010

From the inner recesses of our heart and with a prayerful wish for everyone,
we are greeting everyone a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!

Manuel de Jesus Encarnacion Jr.
Henrietta Reyes dela Cruz-Encarnacion
Ian dela Cruz Encarnacion
Nouelle dela Cruz Encarnacion
Manuel dela Cruz Encarnacion III
Marionne Joi dela Cruz Encarnacion

Civil Law Review Case Doctrines - Part I

Upon my reaching the 4th year of law school, I am enthralled at the quick passage of time. Four years ago, I was only a freshman with budding desires to become a lawyer. Now, I am just a stone throw away from graduating, and hopefully, taking the bar.

But being a senior comes with it great responsibilities. And foremost is the huge amount of paper works and cases that one has to read, aside from the volumes of books to review and codal provisions to re-familiarize or as one has candidly placed it, memorize it na talaga.

As part of my social service to those who would be in the same vein as I am today in the future, I am starting a new segment of this blog. I shall try to condense the cases I read into the primary doctrines it has pronounced. Just a forewarning, this is not a supplement to your own reading of the cases. Read it from the original. I did. The reason - I WANT TO BE A LAWYER. So if you want to be, READ THE ORIGINAL.

Missing Ramos-style governance - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

Missing Ramos-style governance - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

Just Tweeting

Haven't posted in a while as I have been exceptionally busy the past months - both with work, school and the responsibilities with my family and peers.

Just want to say, how I long to speak with you again soon - real soon...

For now, Curlyman, out!

2003 Revised Rules of the Senate Electoral Tribunal

REVISED RULES OF THE SENATE ELECTORAL TRIBUNAL

The Senate Electoral Tribunal hereby adopts and promulgates the following rules governing its proceedings as the sole judge of all contests relating to the election, returns and qualifications of Members of the Senate, pursuant to Article VI, Section 17 of the Constitution.

TITLE AND CONSTRUCTION

Rule 1. Title and Construction.

These Rules shall be known and referred to as the "Revised Rules of the Senate Electoral Tribunal." They shall be liberally construed in order to achieve just, expeditious and inexpensive determination and disposition of every contest brought before the Tribunal. The word "Tribunal", whenever in these Rules used alone or without qualification, shall be deemed a reference to the Senate Electoral Tribunal, except when otherwise clearly required by the context of its usage.

Immigration 101 (Part 4) - Consolidated Rules

As I have been consistently stating in previous blog posts, the Department of Justice, through Secretary Alberto C. Agra, has issued Department of Justice Circular No. 41 s. 2010 dated 07 June 2010, or the Consolidated Rules and Regulations governing the Issuance and Implementation of Hold Departure Orders, Watchlist Orders, and Allow Departure Orders. This circular is in response to the need to review, revise and consolidate Department Circular No. 17 s. 1998 and Department Circular No. 18 s. 2007, in order to afford the public a quick bird's eye view of the rules governing the mentioned orders.

WHAT'S NEW

While there is no substantial change in the rules as far as the requirements and grounds for the issuance of HDO and WLO are concerned, there were some additions worth noting:

1. In Section 2 (a), the Secretary of Justice may issue a WLO, against the accused, irrespective of nationality, in criminal cases pending trial before the Regional Trial Courts and other lower courts.
   
2. In Section 2 (c), the Secretary of Justice is now allowed to issue a WLO against any person, either MOTU PROPRIO, or upon the request of any government agency, including commissions, task forces or similar entities created by the Office of the President, pursuant to the "Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003" (R.A. No. 9208) and/or in connection with any investigation being conducted by it, or in the interest of national security, public safety or public health.

The full text of the Department Circular is available at the Department of Justice website.

<==Click here==>

Immigration 101 (Part 3) - Allow Departure Orders

As part of the Immigration Series, there are certain orders issued by the competent authorities of the government granting those persons under HDO or WLO the liberty to travel. Next on the Immigration mini-series, Allow Departure Orders.

ALLOW DEPARTURE ORDERS

Allow Departure Orders, or ADO, are orders granted by competent authorities, allowing the person, whose departure from the country is being held by reason of a Hold Departure Order or a Watchlist Order, to leave the country for some exceptional reasons.

The issuance of ADOs are governed by Department of Justice Circular No. 18 dated 23 April 2007. However, in the next few days, Department of Justice shall issue a new Circular consolidating the rules on the issuance of HDOs, WLOs and ADOs.

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE CIRCULAR NO. 18 s. 2007

Under Section 6 of Department Circular No. 18 s. 2007, that in case a person subject of a Watchlist Order or a Hold Departure Order issued by the Secretary of Justice intends to leave the country for some exceptional reasons, the Secretary of Justice may allow the departure of said person, upon duly notarized application and the submission of the following requirements:

1. Duly notarized letter-request;
2. Affidavit of Undertaking stating the purpose and the inclusive period of the intended travel; and
   
3. Authority to Travel from the appropriate office or person, as the case may be ([a] investigating prosecutor where the case is pending (for those under WLO) or [b] office where the case is pending (for those under HDO).

In most cases, the ADOs contain provisions for the party allowed to comply, which may include:

1. Upon arrival at point of destination: appearing before the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate, upon arrival at the point of destination;
2. Upon return to the Philippines: presentation to the Department of Justice, either in writing or in person, proofs of compliance of the ADO, i.e. Immigration stamps of Departure and Arrival.

The ADO is valid only for the period stated in its face and violation of the provisions of the ADO shall merit its cancellation and non-issuance of future applications for ADO.

Immigration 101 (Part 2) - Watchlist Orders

In 2007, the Department of Justice saw the need to fill in the gaps of the guidelines in the issuance of Hold Departure Orders, particularly with respect to cases falling within the jurisdiction of courts below the Regional Trial Court and those pending final determination by the government's prosecution offices. Thus, Secretary Raul M. Gonzales issued Department Circular No. 18. As part of the mini-series on Immigration 101, next on the list - Watchlist Orders.

WATCHLIST ORDERS

Watchlist Orders, or WLO, are orders issued by a competent authority against a person monitored closely by the authorities, preventing the departure of an individual for a lawful cause.

In Philippine law, WLO, just like the HDO, are implemented by the Commissioner of Immigration, pursuant to the order issued by the Secretary of Justice.

The issuance of WLOs is governed by Department of Justice Circular No. 18 dated 23 April 2007. However, in the next few days, Department of Justice shall issue a new Circular consolidating the rules on the issuance of HDOs, WLOs and ADOs.

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE CIRCULAR NO. 18 s. 2007

Under Section 1 of Department Circular No. 18 s. 2007, the Secretary of Justice may issue a WLO, upon a duly notarized letter request of any interested person against any of the following, together with the respective supporting documents:

1. Those whose case is pending before the lower courts ([a] original or certified true copy of the complaint, and [b] certification from the Clerk of Court that the case is pending);
   
2. In cases pending preliminary investigation ([a] original or certified true copy of the complaint, and [b] certification from the National Prosecution Service stating that the case is pending preliminary investigation); or
   
3. In cases pending Petition for Review or Motion for Reconsideration before the Department of Justice ([a] original or certified true copy of the resolution, and [b] certification from the National Prosecution Service stating that the case is pending motion for reconsideration/petition for review).

All requests for for the issuance of WLO must be accompanied by a notarized application addressed to the Secretary of Justice and such other supporting documents as may be required by the circumstances.

Under Section 4, all WLOs issued under this Rules are valid for sixty (60) days from the date of its issuance, unless sooner terminated or otherwise extended for a non-extendible period of not more than sixty (60) days.

A WLO shall be lifted or cancelled (Section 3) on the following cases:

1. Upon the expiration of the validity (Sec. 4), or
   
2. Upon the termination of the preliminary investigation and/or petition for review before the Department of Justice.
   

To lift the WLO, the interested party must submit [a] duly notarized letter request; [b] original or certified true copy of the resolution; and [c] certification from the National Prosecution Service that the case has been dismissed.

Immigration 101 (Part 1) - Hold Departure Orders

In the interest of public service and for the benefit of all Filipinos and aliens here in the Philippines, and abroad I shall be coming out with the Immigration series. First on the list, Hold Departure Orders.


HOLD DEPARTURE ORDERS

Hold Departure Orders, or HDO, is an order issued by a competent authority, preventing the departure of an individual for a lawful cause. It is intended to bind or obligate, to restrain or constrain, to keep in custody or under obligation, a person for his/her acts committed within the Philippines.

In Philippine law, HDO are implemented by the Commissioner of Immigration, pursuant to an order issued by the President, the Secretary of Justice or the Regional Trial Courts, commanding him/her to prevent the departure for abroad of Filipinos or aliens named in the order.

The issuance of HDOs are governed by Department of Justice Circular No. 17 dated 19 March 1998 in case ordered by the Secretary of Justice and Supreme Court Circular No. 39-97 dated 19 June 1997 in case ordered by the Regional Trial Court.


DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE CIRCULAR NO. 17 s. 1998

Under Section 2(c) of Department Circular No. 17 s. 1998, the Secretary of Justice, may issue an HDO, upon notarized application of an interested party against any of the following, together with the necessary supporting documents:

1. An accused released on bail ([a] certified true copy of the Order releasing the person on bail, and [b] certification by the Clerk of Court concerning the case where bail was issued is pending);
2. A fugitive from justice ([a] certified true copy of the Information and Warrant/Order of Arrest against the fugitive, and [b] certification by the Clerk of Court concerning that the warrant of arrest was returned unserved by the peace officer);
3. An alien who is the accused in a criminal case that is pending before a court ([a] certification issued by the court concerning the pendency of the criminal case involving the alien, and [b] certified true copy of the Information filed in the case);
4. An alien who is a respondent in a deportation complaint before the Bureau for violation of immigration laws, rules and regulations, upon recommendation of the Board of Special Inquiry or of the Board of Commissioners ([a] copy of the deportation complaint);
5. An alien whose presence is required as a witness in a criminal case, or as a defendant/respondent or witness in a civil, labor or other case before a judicial, quasi-judicial or administrative body of the government ([a] certified true copy of the subpoena or summons issued to the alien, and [b] copy of the criminal information or of the complaint in the civil, labor or administrative case wherein the alien's presence is required).

All requests for for the issuance of HDO must be accompanied by a notarized application addressed to the Secretary of Justice and such other supporting documents as may be required by the circumstances.

In Section 2(d), the Secretary of Justice may likewise issue an HDO, upon the request of the Head of a Department of the Government; the head of a Constitutional body or a commission or agency performing quasi-judicial functions; the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court for the Judiciary; or the President of the Senate or Speaker of the House of Representatives for the legislative body, when the adverse party is the Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities, in the interest of national security, public safety or public health, as may be provided by law. The request shall specify the reason or ground for holding or preventing the departure of the subject individual.

An HDO issued pursuant to this Rules may be lifted, upon request of an interested party, when the case upon which a bail granted has been dismissed, or the accused, regardless of nationality, has been acquitted, or that the alien's presence has been discharged by the appropriate court. All requests for lifting must be notarized and all supporting documents must likewise be attached.


SUPREME COURT CIRCULAR NO. 39-97

The Supreme Court, through the Office of the Court Administrator, issued the said Circular in order to avoid the indiscriminate issuance of HDOs resulting in inconvenience to the affected parties. Accordingly, HDO issued by the Regional Trial Courts shall be issued in criminal cases within the exclusive jurisdiction of the concerned RTC. Hence, the RTC may only issue HDO in cases punishable by prision correccional committed within and filed before its territorial jurisdiction.


DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE CIRCULAR NO. 38 s. 1990

The Secretary of Justice may likewise issue an HDO, upon motion of State Prosecutors, Provincial/City Prosecutors and their Assistants, in cases when an accused is charged with the following cases:

1. Violations of Presidential Decree No. 1866, codifying the laws on illegal/unlawful possession, manufacture, dealing in, acquisition or disposition of firearms, ammunitions and explosives;
2. Crimes against public order (e.g. rebellion, sedition, etc.) defined and penalized in the Revised Penal Code;
3. Violations of Republic Act No. 1700, otherwise known as the Anti-Subversion Law (Note: The Anti-Subversion Law has already been repealed by Republic Act No. 7636 in 1992);
4. Violations of the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972, as amended, when the charge is cognizable by the Regional Trial Court (Note: The Dangerous Drugs Act was amended by Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002);
5. Violations of the Anti-Carnapping Act of 1972;
6. Violations of the Tariff and Customs Code, as penalized by Sections 3601 to 3603, inclusive, and Sections 3605 to 3610, inclusive;
7. Bank Frauds and Frauds' against Public Treasury and other crimes involving economic sabotage.

In cases where the accused has jumped bail and fled to another country, the same shall be immediately reported to the Chief State Prosecutor, who shall, with the approval of the Secretary of Justice, make appropriate representations to the Department of Foreign Affairs for the cancellation of the accused's passport and other travel documents so as to make him an undocumented alien in the host country, hence a subject for deportation.


CONCLUSION

Towards the end, the rules on the issuance of Hold Departure Orders should be carefully observed. Inasmuch as we must protect the right of a complainant for appropriate measures to redress his or her grievances, we must likewise give due deference to the right of an individual to travel. The 1987 Constitution is clear when it stated that "neither shall the right to travel be impaired except in the interest of national security, public safety, or public health." Hold Departure Orders should therefore be issued sparingly, but always judiciously, in order that the ends of justice shall be met - that is - the accused of criminal offenses will not evade prosecution and punishment by leaving abroad during the pendency of the criminal proceedings, eluding court processes; and in same vein, the complainant is prevented from making malicious and obviously harassing applications for HDOs.