LLA Member John Smay Hosts Filipino Lawyers

The local Rotary organization recently hosted a group of Filipino lawyers, as a part of an exchange program.  The three representatives of the Philippines’ Rotary Group Study Exchange Team were escorted by local attorney John Smay.

The group had a particular interest in small clams court, and they met with Magisterial District Judge Allen Page, during their visit.

Ms. Josie Montes is a Local Government Operations Officer of the Department of Interior and Local Government assigned to the municipality of Calape, Bohol. Mrs. Joan Sarausos-Largo is a professor of law and Assistant Dean of the College of Law of the University of San Carlos, one of the oldest schools in Asia. Ms. Sheila Go is a practicing attorney specializing in corporate law and taxation. The group discussed the evolution and current practice of minor courts in Pennsylvania and the newly implemented SCC (small claims court) implemented in the Philippines in October of 2008. The group shared requirements and experiences concerning case filings, admissibility of documents, legal representation, jurisdiction and community integration. Acknowledging the similarities between the different cultures, Judge Page related it was an upbeat discussion and enjoyable.

The representatives loved our community, and although enjoying the Study Exchange, looked forward to some nice weather and local shopping.