A journey that began with moot court at the University of San Agustin is opening the door to an international legal experience in Paris, France.
A proud milestone awaits Ancel D’Cunha, a Juris Doctor alumnus of the University of San Agustin (USA), as he prepares to join the Paris office of White & Case LLP for an internship in July 2027.
The opportunity marks another significant step in his developing legal career, giving him a chance to further build his skills in cross-border dispute resolution and provide legal assistance to international clientele.
His journey toward this opportunity began during his participation in the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, where he represented the University of San Agustin–College of Law as part of the team that emerged as the Jessup National Champion and advanced to the 2024 International Rounds in Washington, D.C.
It was during the 2024 International Rounds that he was scouted for the internship opportunity. What followed was a lengthy application process that had to be postponed several times as he navigated the demands of law school.
Three years later, the opportunity is finally becoming a reality.
A Journey Built with a Community
Behind the milestone is a journey shaped not only by individual determination, but also by the people and community who supported Mr. D’Cunha’s growth in moot court and law.
In sharing the news, Mr. D’Cunha expressed his gratitude to his mentors, including Atty. Anfred Panes and Ma’am Elijo Herrera-Bellones, for recommending him and giving him opportunities to develop and demonstrate his skills in moot court.
He likewise acknowledged Dean Jose Mari Tirol, former Dean of the College of Law , for his encouragement and advice, as well as his Jessup teammates and the members of The Parliament, the College of Law’s moot court community.
He also recognized Marco Dava for being his co-agent throughout his Jessup journey and Edward Dominic Emilio for helping train and prepare him for the competitions that shaped his experience.
At the heart of his journey is also the University of San Agustin.
He expressed his gratitude to the University and to former University President Fr. Frederick Commendador and current University President Fr. Arnel Dizon for supporting an environment where the University’s moot court culture could flourish.
For Mr. D’Cunha, the hope is that his experience will open doors to more international opportunities for future Augustinian law students through the University’s continued participation in moot court competitions.
Taking the Augustinian Journey Beyond Borders
From representing USA on an international stage in Washington, D.C., to preparing for an internship in Paris, Mr. D’Cunha’s journey demonstrates how experiences beyond the classroom can open new pathways for professional growth.
His upcoming experience at White & Case will provide an opportunity to further develop his understanding of international legal practice while bringing with him the skills, discipline, and experiences gained through his years in law school and moot court.
For the University of San Agustin, his achievement is a moment of pride—not only because of where his journey is taking him, but because of the work, mentorship, community, and Augustinian formation that have accompanied him along the way.
As he looks ahead to Paris, he carries with him the people and experiences that helped shape his journey—and the spirit of an Augustinian who continues to pursue Virtus et Scientia beyond the borders of home.
The University of San Agustin congratulates our alumnus on this milestone and wishes him every success as he takes this next step in his international legal journey.
#SDG4QualityEducation #SDG17Partnerships