THE UNITED States Embassy collaborated with the Philippine Legal Education Board and the Asia Foundation to support the Revised Model Curriculum for law schools.

The embassy, through its Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, provided assistance through its program “Strengthening Rule of Law through Legal Aid Clinics in the Philippines.”

It is a five-year P126-million project designed to enhance criminal defense efforts and access to justice in the country.

Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo said the program is a “much-needed change” for law students.

“The role of law school is not only to graduate students or pass the bar, but also to ensure students have the necessary skills to serve to their communities,” Gesmundo said in his speech.

The Revised Model Curriculum aims to add a Clinical Legal Education Program component.

The two-unit course introduces students to practical skills and allows for limited practice under the Rules of the Court.

The training will include drafting and submission of pleadings and documents, mediation and other methods of alternative dispute resolution, legal counseling, court appearances, apprenticeships, externships, and internship programs.

“With the incorporation of the Clinical Legal Education Program course into law curricula, students can now benefit from hands-on experience and expand their professional networks – all while providing critical legal services to real clients,” INL Director Kelia Cummins said.