For the third consecutive year, the University of San Agustin – College of Law (USA-COL) has triumphed as Champion of the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition – Philippine National Rounds, held at the University of Santo Tomas from February 25 to 27, 2026. Following national titles in 2024 and 2025, this victory cements a historic three-peat for the University in the domestic leg of the world’s largest and most prestigious moot court competition.
Entering the semifinals as the fourth-seeded team, the squad faced the country’s highest-ranked law schools with determination. They defeated first-seeded University of San Carlos in the semifinals, and ultimately claimed the national title against second-seeded Ateneo de Manila University in a fiercely contested Grand Finals. USA-COL extends its respect to USC and ADMU for their exceptional skills and shared dedication to international law.
The team was anchored by Captain Isaiah Daniel Javier, a veteran mooter making his Jessup debut, alongside first-time mooters: freshman Marie Curie Delos Santos Kyu Rie, sophomores Cianen Kei Ang Lee and Jan King Ortizo as researchers, and sophomore Val Guilbert Mariwa as co-oralist. Despite their first-time experience in the country’s most grueling moot court competition, the team demonstrated precision, poise, and rigorous preparation.
Individual excellence was also recognized: Captain Javier was awarded Top Oralist of the Preliminary Rounds and culminated his national run by being named Best Oralist of the Championship Round, reflecting his mastery and composure before the Bench.
This achievement would not have been possible without the support of the USA-COL community. The University expresses its gratitude to Dean Jose Mari Tirol, University President Fr. Arnel S. Dizon, O.S.A., the faculty, alumni, and mentors, including Atty. Anfred P. Panes and Hon. Elijo Sharon Herrera-Bellones, whose guidance and dedication were instrumental in the team’s success.
The national trophy returns to San Agustin, but the work continues: the Jessup Bulahan Team will represent the Philippines at the Global Rounds in Washington, D.C. from March 28 to April 4, 2026. This milestone celebrates the depth of mooting talent within USA-COL and underscores the institution’s tradition of excellence in legal education.
Congratulations, Bulahan kamo!
