18/08/2026
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Cotabato State University, through its College of Law, held De Novo 2026: Cotabato State University โ College of Law Orientation Program on August 17, 2026, at the University Gymnasium, bringing together the Collegeโs students, faculty, and staff for an orientation designed to prepare students for the demands and expectations of legal education.
The program opened with a welcome address from Dr. Kundo M. Pahm, Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs, followed by a message from the Guest of Honor, Atty. Mohammad Muktadir Estrella, SCL. Representing the students, Amer Hussien Mitmug, Second-Year Representative, also delivered an inspirational message to his fellow law students.
An important part of the orientation was the discussion of College policies and the introduction of its faculty and staff, led by Atty. Philip John Pojas, LLM, Dean of the College of Law. The session acquainted the students with the academic environment of the College and the policies and expectations that will guide them throughout their legal education.
Beyond familiarizing students with institutional policies, the program provided practical guidance on some of the fundamental skills and challenges encountered in law school. Atty. Wafirah Blah discussed โHow to Answer Law School Exam Questions,โ providing students with guidance on approaching and responding to examination questions. Atty. Haifa Panontongan, meanwhile, tackled โHow to Digest Cases,โ focusing on a skill essential to understanding and analyzing judicial decisions.
Complementing these discussions, Atty. Datu Ali Satol, Jr. delivered a session on โHow to Survive Law School,โ offering insights into navigating the academic demands and responsibilities that come with pursuing a legal education.
Messages were also delivered by Meriam B. Ampatuan, RL, MLIS, Designated Law Librarian, and Dr. Helen Mae A. Betito, Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), further emphasizing the academic resources, student services, and institutional support available to law students as they progress through their studies.
The orientation concluded with the closing remarks of Norbert-Christian Frondoza, Governor of the CotSU College of Law Student Council.
More than an introduction to policies and academic practices, the orientation provided students with a clearer understanding of the preparation, discipline, and commitment expected in the study of law.
True to the meaning of De Novo, the activity marked an opportunity to begin anew and move forward with renewed purpose as CotSU law students continue their academic journey toward the legal profession.
