The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) of the University of Batangas (UB) conducted “Empowering Advocates for Justice: Paralegal Training of Volunteers in Prison Service (VIPS)” on April 26, 2025, at the CAS Faculty Room, equipping students with practical legal skills and knowledge to enhance access to justice and community service.
The initiative supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions and SDG 4: Quality Education, reflecting UB’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible students who uphold justice, compassion, and integrity in legal and civic engagement.
The training was facilitated by Atty. Jonathan Paolo Dimaano, Atty. Jellie M. Molino, and TG Lawyers from Makati, who shared their expertise on paralegal work, ethical practices, and the realities of providing legal aid within the correctional system.
Participants included students from the BS Legal Management and AB Political Science programs, as well as members of the Volunteers in Prison Service (VIPS) Core Group. Through interactive lectures and hands-on exercises, they gained deeper insight into paralegal responsibilities, client relations, and the importance of extending justice beyond courtrooms into underserved communities.
Speakers emphasized that volunteerism in legal services plays a vital role in promoting fairness and equality, particularly for inmates and marginalized sectors. By bridging academic theory with real-world application, the training fostered empathy, accountability, and professional readiness among student volunteers.
The Paralegal Training of Volunteers in Prison Service stands as a testament to UB’s enduring mission to produce civic-minded graduates who advocate for justice, equity, and social transformation through education and community involvement.