ILOILO City – A law team from West Visayas State University – College of Law has catapulted Western Visayas onto the global legal stage after finishing first runner-up in one of the world’s most prestigious environmental law competitions, besting elite universities across continents and earning multiple individual honors in the process.
The WVSU “Vox Populi” Moot Team clinched the runner-up finish in the 30th Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition held April 15–18, 2026 at Stetson University in Gulfport, Florida, United States.
This renowned competition is widely acknowledged as one of the largest and most esteemed moot court events globally, focusing on critical environmental issues and promoting innovative legal solutions.
Representing the Philippines, team members Diane Therese Germinanda, Jose Emilio Luis Combatir, and John Patrick Palquiran went head-to-head with top law schools worldwide, delivering strong written submissions and oral arguments on complex environmental law issues.
Under the guidance of Judge Lowell Fredrick Madrileño, Atty. Regina Johanna V. Gustilo, and Prosecutor Federic Loise Regencia, the Iloilo-based team showcased disciplined preparation and cohesive courtroom strategy throughout the tournament.
The Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition has been a prominent fixture in environmental law since its inception in 1996, and this year’s event attracted teams from numerous prestigious institutions.
The competition format demanded rigorous research, a comprehensive understanding of environmental law principles, and the ability to construct compelling arguments in both written submissions and oral presentations.
Competing against some of the best legal minds globally, the WVSU Vox Populi Moot Team distinguished itself through its meticulous preparation and cohesive teamwork.
Palquiran emerged as one of the world’s top oralists, placing 9th Best Speaker overall, while Germinanda delivered a standout performance — ranking 3rd Best Speaker in the preliminary rounds before being named Best Speaker in the Final Round.
The achievement underscores WVSU’s growing stature in legal education and highlights the role of young Filipino lawyers in advancing environmental justice on the global stage.
The support and solidarity of the university and faculty for the team’s efforts further emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence in legal education and environmental awareness.
This triumph not only represents a significant milestone for the West Visayas State University College of Law but also highlights the vital role that emerging legal professionals play in advocating for environmental justice.
The team’s success is a testament to their hard work and dedication, inspiring fellow students and showcasing the potential of young advocates to contribute meaningful solutions to global environmental challenges.
The WVSU Vox Populi Moot Team carries with it a legacy of excellence and a renewed passion for environmental advocacy.
In addition to WVSU-COL, Philippine representatives included Ateneo de Manila University School of Law and University of the Philippines College of Law, alongside institutions from the United States, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America./PN
