De La Salle University–Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) recently wrapped up a two-week study abroad program for 26 law students from Victoria University (VU), Australia, titled “Philippine Legal System and Alternative Dispute Resolution: A Comparative and Immersive Learning Program.”
The program concluded with a culminating ceremony held at the ADG Reception Hall, celebrating both the academic milestones and cultural exchange fostered through the partnership. Dr. Nor Cachuela, Vice President for Global Engagement and External Relations, opened the event by recognizing the collaborative efforts that made the program possible.
Throughout the program, students participated in in-depth lectures on civil law, litigation, and international commercial arbitration. These sessions were led by Judge Gil De La Banda alongside legal practitioners Atty. Ryan Dave Berioso, Atty. Irene Alogoc, Atty. Mary Jude Cantorias Marvel, and Atty. Roi Andrei Galang. Beyond the classroom, participants gained firsthand exposure to the Philippine legal system through educational visits to the Supreme Court of the Philippines, the Court of Appeals, the Malacañang Heritage Museum, and key historical sites across Cavite and Manila.
Certificates of completion were formally awarded by Atty. Ryan Dave Berioso, witnessed by Pam Christou, VU Legal Placements Coordinator; Dr. Twinkle Amparo, DLSU-D Vice Provost for Academics; Dr. Sonia Gementiza, Chief Administrative Officer; and Atty. Dennis Maldo, Vice Dean of the College of Law.
In her message, Pam Christou highlighted how the program deepened students’ understanding of alternative dispute resolution while further strengthening institutional ties between Victoria University and DLSU-D. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Sonia Gementiza, who reaffirmed both universities’ commitment to sustained academic collaboration.
