The Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) and the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) celebrated a significant milestone on Tuesday , June 11, by introducing the first Master of Laws (LL.M.) program in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Set to begin in August, this initiative marks a major step forward in enhancing legal education in the region.
The collaboration between AdMU's School of Law and AdZU’s Rosendo U. Castillo Jr. College of Law was formalized with a memorandum of agreement signed at AdZU’s Salvador Campus. The signing ceremony included representatives from both universities, including AdZU’s Fr. Guillrey Anthony Andal, S.J., Fr. Rene Tacastacas, S.J., and College of Law Dean Cora Montemor, as well as AdMU’s School of Law Dean Jose Maria Hofileña and Graduate Legal Studies Institute Director Amparita Sta. Maria.
AdZU President Guillrey Anthony Andal, S.J., emphasized the importance of this program, noting the lack of LL.M. offerings in the region. Previously, lawyers had to travel to Manila or Cebu to pursue this advanced degree, available only at select institutions like the University of the Philippines and San Beda College.
Innovative Program Delivery
While the LL.M. program will be conducted at AdZU, it will benefit from the expertise of faculty members from AdMU’s School of Law, who will travel to Zamboanga to provide face-to-face instruction. According to AdZU communications officer Leah Panaguiton, students will be officially enrolled under AdMU, ensuring they receive a high-quality education.
AdMU program officer Ryan Jeremiah Quan outlined the curriculum, which includes courses such as fundamentals of thesis writing, methods of research, seminars on comparative legal studies, and contemporary developments in International Law. Over four semesters, students will also specialize in International Human Rights Law and elective courses focused on dispute resolution.
Advancing Legal Practice in the Region
This Master of Laws program is designed to elevate legal practice standards in Zamboanga and beyond. With local lawyers no longer needing to travel to attend classes at ALS’ Makati campus, this program makes advanced legal education more accessible. Panaguiton highlighted that enrollees could pursue a dual degree with AdMU’s international partner universities, expanding their academic and professional opportunities.
