TODAY, we are honoring the 10th anniversary of law firm Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia. This firm has not only lasted for a long time but has also become a respected leader in the Philippine legal industry. It all started in 1980 with a group of young law scholars and student leaders who had a vision, and now it has become a powerful institution that values professionalism, fairness, and respect.
In 2013, Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia was established by fifteen founding partners who shared the same ideals and values. These experienced professionals came together with a common goal: to create a law firm that excels in legal expertise and ethical responsibility. Throughout the past ten years, the firm has stayed true to its founding principles, gaining a reputation for excellence and becoming a trusted name in the legal field.
One of the remarkable things about Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia is its strong commitment to doing good while being successful. This firm not only focuses on legal expertise and serving clients but also actively contributes to improving society. They engage in pro bono work, participate in community activities, and advocate for social justice. In this way, Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia embodies the true spirit of a responsible and compassionate legal institution.
The firm’s dedication to excellence is evident in the awards and recognition it has received over the years from prestigious legal publications like Chambers and Legal 500. Moreover, Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia has consistently supported and empowered the next generation of legal professionals. Recently, they welcomed eleven new lawyers who successfully passed the Philippine Bar Examinations in 2022. By investing in the development and growth of young talents, the firm ensures a legacy of excellence that will continue for years to come.
Beyond their legal victories, Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia also actively contributes to intellectual discussions about legal issues in the Philippines. Their lawyers write insightful articles and participate in important events, sharing their expertise and shaping the legal narrative of the country.
I am grateful to be a client of Cruz, Marcelo & Tenefrancia for a number of reasons:
First, Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia has saved me from going to prison. Founder Simeon “Sonny” V. Marcelo, who later on became Solicitor General and subsequently Ombudsman led the defense team that skillfully handled my case on appeal. In Bunye v. Sandiganbayan (G.R. No 122058, May 5, 1999), the Supreme Court 3rd Division voted 5-0 and junked a Sandiganbayan decision which condemned me, (as former Mayor of Muntinlupa), then Vice Mayor Jaime R. Fresnedi, and several members of the municipal council, to 6 to 10 years in prison. The case arose from our takeover in 1991 of the Alabang Public Market which the Sandiganbayan erroneously ruled as illegal, arbitrary and which caused undue injury to Alabang public market stallholders.
Second, even after I stepped down from my position in the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), they continue to represent me in various harassment suits filed against the BSP and its officials by disgruntled bank owners. All of these cases have been dismissed, as expected.
Third, my daughter Patricia Angela, is one of its founding partners, and is specializing in mining & natural resources/energy and intellectual property.
Founder Avelino “Nonong” J. Cruz, Jr. and I also worked together in the cabinet of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Nonong played a significant role in my appointment as Press Secretary, as he (then the Chjef Presidential Legal Counsel), together with then Executive Secretary Alberto G. Romulo, was involved in the vetting and interview process.
As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia, we acknowledge the firm’s valuable contributions to the legal profession and society as a whole. This extraordinary institution continues to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and dedication to service. It serves as an inspiration to aspiring lawyers and represents excellence in the legal landscape of the Philippines.
Looking ahead, we have confidence that Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia will continue to lead the way, making significant progress in the legal field and leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s legal history. Congratulations to the partners, lawyers, and staff of Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia on this significant milestone. As former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio toasted: “Here’s to another decade of exceptional legal work and unwavering commitment to justice and societal progress.”/PN
