IBP – Nueva Ecija Chapter Signs Landmark Partnership with SKC Philippines to Strengthen Youth Access to Justice
CABANATUAN CITY, NUEVA ECIJA — On February 28, 2026, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines – Nueva Ecija Chapter (IBP-NE) has formally entered into a two-year Memorandum of Understanding with the SKC Center for Leadership and Excellence, Inc. (SKC Philippines), establishing a strategic collaboration aimed at strengthening youth access to justice and expanding civic engagement initiatives at both national and international levels.
As the official organization of all lawyers in the Philippines, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines is mandated to uphold the integrity of the legal profession, promote continuing professional development, and advance public service through legal aid and community engagement. Through this partnership, IBP Nueva Ecija reinforces its commitment to bringing legal services closer to communities, particularly young people who face barriers in understanding their rights and accessing remedies under the law.
“This collaboration allows us to proactively engage young people in preventive legal education and community-based access-to-justice programs,” said Atty. Maria Carmela Wenceslao, Chapter President of IBP Nueva Ecija. “By working directly with youth leaders, we strengthen not only their awareness of legal rights but also the capacity of our lawyers to deliver responsive and community-centered service.”
The partnership establishes a framework for coordinated outreach programs, legal literacy initiatives, and professional development opportunities for members of the legal sector. A Joint Committee composed of representatives from both institutions will oversee program implementation beginning in the second quarter of 2026.
SKC Philippines, a national youth-led organization, holds special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council and is active in regional peacebuilding and climate advocacy platforms. Through this agreement, IBP Nueva Ecija and SKC will pursue joint representation in relevant international platforms, including engagements at the United Nations, ensuring that both legal and youth perspectives contribute to global conversations on justice, governance, and sustainable development.
“Providing young people with clear pathways to seek legal assistance is fundamental to building informed and resilient communities,” said Atty. Jo Anne Padilla, Legal Aid Chairperson of IBP Nueva Ecija. “This partnership enables us to extend the reach of legal aid services across Central Luzon while mentoring the next generation of civic leaders.”
The signing ceremony was attended by IBP Nueva Ecija officers including Atty. Wenceslao, Atty. Padilla, and Atty. Jubail Esteban. Representatives from SKC Philippines were led by Founder and Board Chairman Ellirie Aviles and SKC Regional Ambassador for Central Luzon Devin Carl Padilla Sagun, MPA.
By combining IBP’s institutional mandate and legal expertise with SKC’s nationwide youth network, the partnership aims to reduce systemic barriers to justice, enhance legal awareness among young Filipinos, and foster sustained collaboration between the legal profession and youth communities.
This agreement marks a significant step in IBP Nueva Ecija’s continuing mission to advance access to justice, strengthen public trust in the legal system, and ensure that the law serves all sectors of society, especially the youth.
