Written by Aira Clarize Buyco, Christine Porqueriño, Milagros Guinsad, Mark Genrev Baybayan
As the 19th Congress of the Philippines nears its conclusion, six BA Political Science students from the University of Baguio- School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (UB-STELA) have taken an exciting leap in their academic journey by securing internships at the Senate of the Philippines. This invaluable opportunity allows them to witness firsthand how national policies are crafted, debated, and implemented, bridging the gap between their classroom education and real-world governance.
The students—Aira Clarize Buyco and Christine Porqueriño, deployed to the Legislative Technical Affairs Bureau; Mark Genrev Baybayan and Milagros Guinsad, assigned to the Legislative Bill Drafting Service; Ron Erwin Monta, placed in the Legislative Records and Archives Service; and Cyber Laurels Domantay, who works under the office of Senator Bong Go—are gaining hands-on experience in various facets of legislative work.
The students were immersed in various legislative tasks where their responsibilities included attending Senate hearings and sessions, organizing bill proposals and Republic Acts, summarizing case digests, conducting research on impeachment proceedings, fulfilling secretariat services, and making a repository of laws. These tasks provide them with a deeper understanding of the complexities of the legislative process.
Beyond their day-to-day duties, the interns also had the privilege of observing lawmakers in action, gaining insight into the legislative discussions, the art of policy negotiation, and the impact of decisions on the nation. As they reflect on the experience, Mila mentioned, “It’s completely different when you’re in the real field. From practicing ordinance and bill proposals in class to watching live debates and bills being lobbied in the Senate—it’s an eye-opening transition. Ibang iba”.
As stated by Aira, “Joining the Legislative Technical Affairs Bureau during my Senate internship was like stepping right into the heart of legislative work. I soon realized that the real impact lies in the small details—doing research, drafting, and providing technical support that drives the whole process. In this bureau, I worked with documents, helped organize bills, and got a firsthand look at how policies are developed behind the scenes. This experience gave me a deeper understanding of how laws are carefully shaped, not just passed.”
Christine added, “Working in the secretariat for legislative work has given me a new perspective on how laws are made. Attending hearings has shown me the depth of discussions behind every decision. I’ve encountered challenges that tested my adaptability and attention to detail. At first, it was overwhelming, but I learned to stay on top of the responsibilities.”
Genrev concurred, “Spending my practicum at the Senate is immensely memorable, as I was able to witness firsthand scenarios I had only watched online—like a senator roasting a resource speaker. But most of all, it was a privilege and a pressure to be in an office providing technical assistance to the senators and to be trained by people who play a huge part in the legislative department, which I never imagined I would experience before my academic journey concluded.”
These immersive experiences are broadening the students’ perspectives on governance and policy making, especially the importance of research, critical thinking, and public service. As they continue their internships at the Senate, the lessons learned will undoubtedly shape their future careers, deepening their commitment to making a meaningful impact on the nation’s legislative landscape.
