The University of San Agustin – College of Law (USA-COL) has once again proven its legal prowess by securing its second consecutive national championship at the Philip C. Jessup Moot Court Competition: Philippine National Rounds. The prestigious event, hosted by DivinaLaw at the BGPOP Building, University of Santo Tomas, saw USA-COL emerge as the national champions, earning the honor of representing the Philippines in the International Rounds in Washington, DC for the second year in a row.
Widely regarded as the “Olympics” of Moot Court competitions, the Jessup is the oldest and most esteemed moot court tournament globally, attracting the brightest legal minds from top law schools. The Philippine National Rounds, known for being one of the most competitive globally, showcased the remarkable skill and dedication of USA-COL’s team.
Team Lineup and Achievements
USA-COL’s winning team was composed of the following members:
Ancel D’Cunha – Speaker
Marco Giorgione Dava – Speaker, Team Captain
Jenny Faith Arceño – Head Researcher
Andry Pagsuguiron – Researcher
Lester John Carnaje – Researcher
Guided by their coach and advisor, Atty. Anfred Panes, the team delivered an outstanding performance, achieving a flawless 4-0 record in the Preliminary Rounds and securing the title of National Champion. Their comprehensive preparation and strategic arguments also earned them the recognition of 3rd Overall Best Memorial.
Individual Awards
In addition to the team’s collective success, individual members were also recognized for their exceptional oral advocacy skills:
Marco Giorgione Dava was named the 5th Best Oralist in the Preliminary Rounds.
Ancel D’Cunha secured the title of 7th Best Oralist in the Preliminary Rounds.
Their achievements are a testament to the team’s unwavering commitment, intellectual rigor, and the quality of legal education at the University of San Agustin.
Onward to Washington, DC
As the reigning national champions, USA-COL will advance to the International Rounds in Washington, DC, where they will compete against the best law schools from around the world. This remarkable back-to-back victory not only reinforces USA-COL’s standing in the national moot court scene but also brings pride to the entire Augustinian community.
The university extends its heartfelt congratulations to the team, their coach, and the College of Law for this historic achievement. As they prepare for the International Rounds, the support and prayers of the Augustinian community go with them.
Viva San Agustin!