Philippine Legal Community Mourns Loss of Visionary Professor Myrna S. Feliciano

The Supreme Court of the Philippines has paid tribute to the late Professor Myrna S. Feliciano, a renowned legal scholar and advocate for women's and children's rights. Her passing has sent shockwaves throughout the Philippine legal community, with many remembering her as a trailblazer in many fields of law, particularly in gender, children, and marriage law.

Professor Feliciano's dedication to family protection and child welfare has left a lasting impact on the Philippine justice system. She served as Chairperson Emeritus of the Legal Writing, Research, and Methodology Department of the Philippine Judicial Academy and worked as a consultant to the Supreme Court Committee on Family Courts and Juvenile Concerns. Her expertise and leadership significantly shaped continuing legal education for lawyers, contributing to the development of a more responsive and inclusive justice system.

Beyond her work in the judiciary, Professor Feliciano was also a respected academic and legal scholar. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Library Sciences and Bachelor of Laws degrees from the University of the Philippines in 1957 and 1973, respectively. She later obtained a Master of Law Librarianship degree from the University of Washington in 1965 and a Master of Laws degree from Harvard University in 1980. Her impressive academic background and experience made her a sought-after professorial lecturer and regular faculty member at the UP College of Law.

Throughout her distinguished career, Professor Feliciano served on several Supreme Court committees, leaving an indelible mark on the development of rules, policies, and reforms that strengthened the justice system and advanced the cause of vulnerable sectors. Her commitment to advocacy for women and vulnerable sectors was further demonstrated by her role as Commissioner of the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women.

The Supreme Court has expressed its deepest gratitude for Professor Feliciano's invaluable contributions to the development of the Philippine justice system. The High Court has also extended its condolences to her family, colleagues, and loved ones, expressing hope that they would find comfort in the enduring legacy she leaves behind. Professor Feliciano's remains will lie in state at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Jerusalem Chapel, also known as Claret Church, in UP Village, Diliman, Quezon City, beginning May 27, where final respects may be offered.

As the Philippine legal community mourns the loss of this visionary, it is essential to remember her remarkable achievements and the impact she had on the justice system. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of lawyers, scholars, and advocates, ensuring that her work and dedication to the cause of justice and equality will never be forgotten.