Magistoryang Legal: One Year of Evangelizing Justice on Air

By Atty. Raizel V. Dimaano

One year ago, a quiet yet powerful dream took flight on the airwaves. Born from a shared vision between the Ateneo de Naga University College of Law – Ignatian Legal Apostolate Office (ILAO) and the Cáceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP), “Magistoryang Legal” began as a small radio project with a big heart: to bring the Law closer to those who need it most.

Law made closer

On May 31, 2024, the seeds were planted during the ceremonial signing of the MOU, featuring Atty. Raizel V. Dimaano, Project Manager of Project Magis-ILAO, and Rev. Fr. Jhonan’z D. Vibar, Chairperson of the COWCP. United in their commitment, they vowed to make the Law a powerful

instrument of inclusion, education and service.

Four days later, “Magistoryang Legal” launched its inaugural episode on DWRV 98.3 FM Radio Caritas Mariae – The Mother’s Touch, marking the start of a monthly tradition. Every first Tuesday of the month from 9:00 to 10:30 AM, each episode has been a humble offering of knowledge to the people -the Law made simple.

The Year in retrospect

Throughout the year, a line-up of dedicated and empathetic lawyers became guest speakers,

each illuminating important and relevant legal issues. The inaugural episode featured Atty. Juddene R.

Bernardo, who provided a comprehensive overview of the legal landscape alongside Law Student Practitioner (LSP), Ms. Kim Lasala. On July 2, Atty. Lydie Ron Bonacua addressed the\ critical issue of trafficking in persons together with LSP, Ms. Precious Grace Follero Peregrino. This was followed by Atty. Michelle G. Barandon on August 6, who focused on the rights of domestic workers as outlined in the Kasambahay Law.

Atty. Joseph Ceasar Sahurda illuminated the topic of Torts and Damages on September 3, while

Atty. Alfea Barra focused on the laws safeguarding Senior Citizens on October 1. In the episode that aired

on November 5, Atty. Ma. Abegail O. Tipones delved into Insurance Law, addressing the urgent needs

of those impacted by the extraordinary flooding caused by Typhoon Kristine. In December, Atty. Joseph

Kim Buenafe brought attention to the fundamental principles of Human Rights.

As the new year opened, Atty. Lydie Ron Bonacua took the stage on January 7, to address the critical

issue of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC). This was followed by Atty. Her Lynn Balares on February 4, who expertly clarified the intricacies of the Data Privacy Act. The March

episode showcased Atty. Jomari Ian F. Simando, who provided a clear explanation of ejectment suits and

recovery of possession. In April, Atty. Louie Beriña delivered an engaging discussion on the laws impacting seafarers, with a focus on the Labor Code and Migrant Workers Act.

On May 6, a compelling and relevant episode featured Atty. Alfea Barra alongside Legal Service

Practitioners Kim Noelle Odilamar and Jao Elegado, discussing critical issues such as vote buying, vote

selling, and the misuse of state resources, all in anticipation of the upcoming elections held last May 12. Lastly, on June 3, Atty. Khim Naval guided listeners through the intricacies of workers’ rights under Labor Law in a special episode titled “Karapatan ng Manggagawa”.

A Ministry of Hope and Awareness

The name “Magistoryang Legal” was coined from Project Magis, the ILAO initiative rooted in the

Ignatian call to “do more.” Combined with istorya -the Bikol word for story, it reflects the spirit of the

program. At its heart, Atty. Rai anchors each episode with a unique blend of legal expertise, warmth and deep pastoral mission. Her voice has become a trusted guide for those eager to understand the Law with confidence.

As Fr. Vibar puts it, “Legal formation is pastoral work too, when it brings light to the lives of those

in darkness.” This Atty. Rai affirms, “Magistoryang Legal is not just a project—it is a mission. It is a ministry of hope and awareness, where the Law meets the people where they are.”

A year later, with a very dedicated team, this mission continues to resonate through the airwaves. Through each voice, each topic and every episode, “Magistoryang Legal” continues to plant seeds of justice, thereby enriching communities with truth and serving as a poignant reminder that when the Law is grounded in love, it transforms into a powerful language of mercy.