To bridge the gap between the law and the marginalized, newly-elected Cebu City Councilor Atty. Mikel F. Rama has filed a proposed ordinance institutionalizing a Free Leg`al Aid Program for the urban poor, aimed at providing accessible and reliable legal services to underserved communities across the city.
The measure affirms Councilor Rama’s commitment to public service beyond legislation—anchored on his legal expertise and deep sense of civic duty. “No Cebuanos should be left behind in their pursuit of justice simply because they cannot afford legal counsel,” he said.
The proposed program envisions regular legal aid missions in partnership with law schools, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, and private law practitioners. It covers services such as legal consultation, notarization of documents, and assistance in barangay mediation and court processes.
Atty. Rama brings to the City Council a wealth of legal experience. Prior to public office, he was an Associate at Angara Abello Concepcion Regala & Cruz Law Offices (ACCRALAW) from 2011 to 2015, and served as Managing Partner of Rama Baena Tan & Ang Law Offices (RBTA Law) from 2020 to May 2025. His legal acumen is matched by a keen understanding of social realities, making him a strong advocate for reforms rooted in compassion and pragmatism.
In recognition of his leadership and legislative promise, the Council elected him to several key posts:
- Chairman, Committee on Housing
- Chairman, Committee on Labor, Employment, Cooperative & Livelihood
- Chairman, Committee on Laws & Styling
- Chairman, Committee on Scholarship
- Vice-Chairman, Committee on Environment, Natural Resources & Energy
- Vice-Chairman, Committee on House Rules and Oversight
The breadth of his committee roles reflects the Council’s trust in his ability to shepherd vital legislation and push for inclusive policies.
This initiative on legal aid is just the first of many. “Empowering communities begins with knowledge of their rights,” Rama noted. “This program is my way of ensuring Cebu’s urban poor know that the law works for them, too.”