SyCipLaw, in partnership with the National Filipino American Lawyers Association (NFALA), hosted its first legal symposium focusing on property purchases, succession, and immigration. The event took place at the SyCipLaw Center in Makati City as part of the Firm’s 80th anniversary celebration.
Founded in 2012, NFALA is an inclusive organization dedicated to uniting the Filipino-American legal community, supporting its members in their professional endeavors, and advocating for the interests of Filipino-Americans across various industries.
SyCipLaw Managing Partner Hector M. de Leon, Jr. extended a warm welcome to the NFALA delegates and emphasized the power of collaboration to advance the rule of law. “This symposium is not merely an exchange of legal knowledge; it is an opportunity for Filipino lawyers from different places to connect and share ideas. Together, we can foster a more robust and unified legal community that leverages shared insights and collective advocacy to navigate the complexities of today’s legal landscape,” he said.
Brookhaven Municipal Court Georgia Judge and NFALA President Bryan Ramos expressed his deep gratitude to SyCipLaw and the NFALA delegates for being a part of the event. “It is my sincere hope that today marks the beginning of many collaborative programs and events aimed at advancing justice, promoting equality, and cultivating excellence among Filipino and Filipino-American legal professionals,” he continued.
The symposium featured a keynote address from Hon. Henry S. Bensurto, Jr., the Philippine Ambassador to Turkey, who discussed issues surrounding Philippine maritime security and territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea. He also shared insights from his experience as part of the Philippine legal team in the South China Sea arbitration.
The first half of the symposium featured a panel discussion on property and succession, with SyCipLaw Partner Russel L. Rodriguez and President of Integrated Bar of the Philippines – California Chapter Jeanne Serrano moderating the discussions. Panelists included SyCipLaw Partners Benedicto P. Panigbatan and John Paul V. De Leon, along with Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court of Pasig City, Branch 271, Elisa Sarmiento-Flores. They gave a general overview of property and condominium ownership in the Philippines, its limitations and exceptions, and the legal implications for Filipino spouses of divorces obtained abroad.
In the second half of the symposium, a panel discussion featuring Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Assistant Secretary Francis Ron C. De Guzman and immigration lawyers Ms. Lourdes Santos Tancinco and Ms. Jerilynn Gonzalez Abrams addressed current regulations and latest developments in U.S. immigration law. Mr. De Guzman also highlighted the DMW’s role in safeguarding the rights of Filipino workers abroad. The discussion was moderated by Ms. Charina Palomares Garcia.
The symposium concluded with Russel expressing appreciation to NFALA for its commitment to helping members reconnect with their roots and support the Filipino legal community. He emphasized, “A better understanding of our laws and processes can help position the Philippines as an attractive investment destination for American businesses, ultimately creating more jobs here in the Philippines.”
SyCipLaw Partners and Associates, as well as NFALA delegates and guests, join a lively discussion on existing regulations and developments relating to property ownership and immigration.
(From L) Judge Elisa Sarmiento-Flores, along with SyCipLaw Partners John Paul V. De Leon, Russel L. Rodriguez, and Benedicto P. Panigbatan, and Atty. Jeanne Serrano discuss rules and regulations governing property purchases in the Philippines.
(From L) DMW Assistant Secretary Francis Ron C. De Guzman, along with Atty. Jerilynn Gonzalez Abrams, Atty. Lourdes Santos Tancinco, and Atty. Charina Palomares Garcia talk about protection of Filipino migrant workers and developments in immigration law in the United States.
SyCipLaw Partner Russel L. Rodriguez expresses his optimism that continued collaboration with NFALA is beneficial for both Filipinos and Filipino-American communities.
