Introduction
Atty. Angelo De Alban is a prominent Filipino lawyer, educator, and social advocate known for his commitment to public service, justice, and educational reform. Though not a household name, he made headlines when he ran as an independent candidate for Senator in the 2019 Philippine midterm elections, focusing his campaign on education, legal reforms, and social welfare. His dedication to championing the rights of ordinary citizens, promoting access to quality education, and advocating for systemic change has made him a notable figure in the Philippine legal and political landscape.
This article explores his background, legal career, advocacy efforts, and contributions to public service, highlighting his enduring commitment to making a difference in society.
Early Life and Education
Atty. Angelo De Alban grew up in the Philippines, where he developed a strong sense of justice and compassion for others. His formative years were shaped by a desire to help those who were marginalized and improve access to basic rights, particularly in education.
He pursued a degree in law, driven by the belief that legal expertise could be a tool for meaningful societal change. Throughout his academic journey, he displayed a deep interest in legal education, human rights, and public service, which would later define his career.
De Alban graduated from San Sebastian College-Recoletos, a prestigious institution known for producing legal practitioners with a strong sense of justice and service. His legal background equipped him with the skills and knowledge to engage in both private practice and public advocacy.
Legal Career and Advocacy
Championing Legal Reforms
As a practicing lawyer, Atty. Angelo De Alban became known for his principled stand on legal issues and his efforts to make the law more accessible and equitable for ordinary Filipinos. His practice focuses on human rights, education, and public welfare, reflecting his passion for serving the underprivileged.
De Alban is an advocate for legal literacy, aiming to empower Filipinos by educating them about their rights. He believes that knowledge of the law is a powerful tool that can help individuals protect themselves against exploitation and injustice. Through his work, he has provided legal assistance to marginalized groups, offering them representation and fighting for their rights.
Campaigning for Educational Reform
A significant part of De Alban’s advocacy revolves around educational reform. He has been vocal about the inequalities in the Philippine education system, particularly the lack of access to quality education for underprivileged students. His legal expertise and personal commitment to education made him a strong voice for improving the quality of public education and promoting policies that support students and teachers.
As a law professor, De Alban has dedicated much of his career to shaping the minds of future legal practitioners. His work in academia not only involves teaching but also mentoring and inspiring students to use their legal knowledge for the greater good. His involvement in legal education underscores his commitment to building a new generation of ethically driven lawyers.
2019 Senatorial Run: A Campaign for Change
In 2019, Atty. Angelo De Alban ran for Senator as an independent candidate, driven by a desire to bring real reforms to the Philippine government. Though he lacked the massive financial backing and political machinery of mainstream candidates, he carried a genuine and heartfelt campaign, rooted in his advocacy for education and justice.
Platform and Key Issues
De Alban’s campaign platform focused on several key issues:
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Educational Reform: He pushed for increased funding for public education, improved teacher compensation, and better learning resources for students.
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Legal and Justice System Reforms: He advocated for faster judicial processes, fairer legal representation for the poor, and stronger anti-corruption measures.
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Anti-Poverty and Social Welfare Programs: His platform included policies aimed at reducing poverty through inclusive social programs and better access to public services.
Grassroots Approach
Unlike traditional candidates, De Alban’s campaign relied on grassroots efforts and direct engagement with voters. He traveled to various provinces, meeting with ordinary Filipinos to hear their concerns firsthand. His personal, on-the-ground approach made his campaign genuine and relatable, though he ultimately did not secure a seat in the Senate.
Contributions to Education and Legal Literacy
Even after his senatorial bid, Atty. Angelo De Alban continued his advocacy for education and legal literacy. He remained active in academic circles, teaching law and conducting seminars and workshops on legal rights and responsibilities. His commitment to making the law accessible to Filipinos reflects his belief that an informed citizenry is vital to a just society.
Promoting Legal Awareness
Through lectures, public talks, and social media, De Alban actively promotes legal literacy. He simplifies complex legal concepts to help ordinary Filipinos understand their rights and obligations. This initiative is part of his larger mission to empower citizens with knowledge, enabling them to stand up against injustice.
Values and Principles
Atty. Angelo De Alban is known for his integrity, humility, and compassion. His decision to run as an independent candidate in 2019, despite lacking a major party’s support, showcased his commitment to his principles. He rejected the trappings of traditional politics, choosing instead to stay true to his values.
Ethical Leadership
De Alban embodies the ideals of ethical leadership. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a consistent dedication to public service, fairness, and justice. His legal practice and advocacy efforts reflect his unwavering commitment to creating a more just society.
Public Perception and Legacy
Although he did not win a seat in the 2019 senatorial elections, Atty. Angelo De Alban left a mark on Philippine politics. His candidacy, though underfunded and overlooked by mainstream media, inspired many to consider the importance of independent voices in politics. His campaign was a reminder that public service is about genuine advocacy rather than political gain.
De Alban’s continuing work in legal education and public advocacy ensures that his influence endures. By empowering future lawyers and promoting legal literacy, he is shaping a new generation of Filipinos who are better equipped to fight for their rights.
Conclusion
Atty. Angelo De Alban is more than just a lawyer—he is an educator, advocate, and symbol of principled leadership. His unwavering dedication to legal reforms, educational advocacy, and public service reflects his genuine desire to create a more just and equitable society.
Though his senatorial bid was unsuccessful, his impact continues through his legal practice, teaching, and advocacy work. De Alban’s career serves as a testament to the power of integrity, passion, and perseverance in the pursuit of meaningful social change. His story is an inspiration for those who believe that even without political clout, one can still make a difference by standing firm on principles and serving others with dedication.
Sources:
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Official Philippine Commission on Elections (COMELEC) – Candidate Information
https://comelec.gov.ph -
Angelo De Alban’s Official Facebook Page – Advocacy and Legal Updates
https://www.facebook.com/AngeloDeAlban -
Philippine Daily Inquirer – 2019 Senatorial Candidate List and Profiles
https://www.inquirer.net -
Rappler – 2019 Election Coverage and Candidate Profiles
https://www.rappler.com -
Philippine News Agency (PNA) – Election and Campaign Coverage
https://www.pna.gov.ph