SUPREME  Court Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh emphasized the central role of law schools in shaping not only competent legal professionals but also ethical leaders who uphold the rule of law in a democratic society.

Singh delivered this message in her keynote address at the 2026 National Convention of the Legal Education Board and the Philippine Association of Law Schools, themed “Reimagining the Teaching and Licensing of Lawyers in the Brave New World,” held on February 3, 2026.

The event gathered deans, faculty members, and legal education leaders from across the country.

She underscored that the quality of laws, courts, and governance ultimately reflects the quality of legal education that produces the nation’s lawyers, judges, legislators, and public servants.

“In the campuses of legal education institutions, you form the leaders of this nation whose power and influence will transcend their professions and ultimately influence and decide the fate of every sector of Philippine society,” Singh said.

She emphasized that the Supreme Court remains a vital stakeholder in legal education, given its mandate to define and clarify the law and to ensure the integrity of the legal profession.

The Associate Justice also cited the Court’s increasing engagement with the legal academe, including the appointment of amici curiae in cases involving complex and novel legal issues, as evidence of the Judiciary’s recognition of academic scholarship as an essential component of judicial decision-making.

Singh emphasized the shared responsibility of the Judiciary, legal educators, and regulatory bodies in strengthening legal education.