Law students study abroad in the Philippines
A first for both universities, the VU law study tour to De La Salle University in the Philippines ran across twelve days in January 2026. For VU students it was an intensive study unit: International Law Practicum – an elective in the Bachelor of Laws.
Students gained insight into Philippine history, culture and judicial process – with a focus on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): the Philippines Approach.
One of the tour organisers Ryan Dave Berioso, who is a solicitor alongside his work as a VU law lecturer, was born in the Philippines and completed an arts degree before moving internationally in 2007 to pursue studies in law.
As the lead academic for the program, he described it as a “bridge” between two jurisdictions. He explained it provides students with a comparative lens on alternative dispute resolution in a commercial law context in both countries, “preparing them for the realities of legal practice in a world that is increasingly connected; where commercial dealings and dispute resolution processes frequently operate across jurisdictions”. The tour also helps students “develop an understanding of how culture shapes legal outcomes.”
He explained that in both jurisdictions, “litigation is no longer an automatic starting point for resolving commercial disputes – negotiated and facilitated resolution has become an integral part of the legal process. For this reason, law student need ADR skills – they are essential in a legal career,” Mr Berioso said.
Learning, growth & cultural exchange with regional neighbours
The students experienced campus life, staying at De La Salle University.
Highlights included:
- Guest lecturers, including judges, mediators and lawyers, who shared their experience within the Philippine legal system; international commercial arbitration, civil litigation, alternative dispute resolution and public policy
- A guided tour of the Supreme Court, with insights from lawyers and court staff on procedural and courtroom practices
- Meeting The Hon. Fernanda Lampas-Peralta, Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeals
- An interactive session with Peter Adams, Counsellor for Development of the Australian Embassy in the Philippines
- Visiting the City of Imus, and the Barangay Court; a community-based justice system
- Touring the Bahay Ugnayan Presidential Museum, heritage town of Taal and touring the Teus Mansion
- Interactions with clients accessing the De La Salle University, House of Hope, (Bahay Pag-asa); a community intervention and rehabilitation program as part of juvenile justice reform.
For law student Levi Del Fierro, the hospitality “came alive with feasts, festivals, and fiestas – this “bayanihan” spirit of generosity is about bringing joy and helping others – a trait I plan to strengthen, share and harness in my future as a lawyer.”
“I learnt about the Philippine Constitution, its adaptation of common law principles and its amalgamation with the civil law system, contrasting with Australia’s common law system. I was grateful to visit the Philippine courts, and to learn about the Australian-Philippines mutual interest relationship on foreign affairs,” Mr Fierro said.
Reflecting on the tour, coordinator Pam Christou said it was “meaningful, not just because of the knowledge we gained; but the enthusiasm, openness and generosity of the most amazing hosts, strengthening the connections between our communities.”
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our hosts at De La Salle University for an insightful and enriching visit. Thank you for sharing your traditions, and the diversity in Filipino culture. And consistently, without fail, showing us the Filipino way of hospitality and appreciation,” Ms Christou said.
