Mariano Marcos
State University

MMSU inks MOU with M Law for legal aid and student support

By Niña Christelle Sumintac

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalized between Mariano Marcos State University and Atty. Michael Marcos Manotoc, through the Manotoc Bucoy Chatto Marasigan and Habacon Law Firm (M Law), on September 28.

The partnership covers three areas of collaboration: community engagements, internships and externships, and student development assistance. 

Under the MOU, M Law will support MMSU College of Law's Center for Legal Aid, Research, and Advocacy (CLARA) in advancing its advocacies. Both parties committed to joint efforts that bring lawyering closer to the people through legal aid services, information drives, public campaigns, and initiatives on citizens’ rights, education, and empowerment.

The agreement also provides law students with practical exposure to the profession through the Clinical Legal Education Program (CLEP). Both internships and externships will be offered to allow students hands-on experience in legal practice. M Law will specifically collaborate on CLEP activities involving commercial law, including contract negotiations and transactions, strategic partnerships, and commercial dispute resolution.
In addition, M Law pledged support for MMSU COL’s student development programs by providing scholarships, financial assistance, and backing for initiatives that enhance the learning environment and student experience.

Representing the University in the signing was Atty. Brian Jay Corpuz, Dean of MMSU College of Law, who welcomed the partnership with gratitude.

The event was also graced by MMSU COL Batch 2025, where Atty. Manotoc distributed cash incentives as part of his way of giving back, coinciding with the celebration of his birthday earlier this month.
Also present during the ceremonial signing were Atty. Saniata Marcos, MMSU COL College Secretary; and Atty. Lorma Cuadro, MMSU CLEP Chief; along with Atty. Manotoc’s wife, Ms. Cara Manglapus Manotoc, who joined him in the occasion.

📸M Law and Atty. Brian Jay Corpuz