Building a New Future in Environmental Law at CUHK
Five years of criminal and civil litigation in the Philippines had given Stephen Baldovino a solid foundation in law. But it was his decision to pursue the LLM in Energy and Environmental Law at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) that would reshape his legal career entirely.
Gateway to International Law
For lawyers seeking to specialise in energy law, location and programme quality are crucial factors. As Stephen explored his options for Hong Kong postgraduate studies, CUHK's reputation and strategic location made it an obvious choice, offering a gateway to the international community with a strong focus on the Asian market. “Here in Hong Kong, the best programme located close to the Philippines is at CUHK, so I did not hesitate. I applied, and fortunately, I was accepted,” he shares.
A New Legal Perspective
The graduate programme offered by CUHK's Faculty of Law had a profound impact on Stephen, offering more than just theoretical knowledge while equipping him with valuable skills and knowledge. “We were not only taught about the theoretical aspects of the subjects, but we were also trained to exercise critical thinking,” Stephen explains. This approach has proved invaluable in his current practice, where he navigates both Hong Kong and Philippine regulations.
The programme's impact has also been crucial for Stephen's future career. “Professional growth-wise, it's the best because right now I can continue my studies, and eventually get back on track and practise energy and environmental law,” he notes.
Academic Excellence and Challenge
Student life at CUHK was marked by both challenges and rewards. His academic experience challenged Stephen the way he considered situations, reminding him of his bar examination experience. “The questions are formulated in such a way to stimulate your critical thinking. They are not direct questions where answers are yes or no, you really have to think deep,” he explains.
But the most rewarding aspect was sharing his achievements with his scholarship grantee. Support from the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) scholarship allowed Stephen to focus entirely on his studies, alleviating financial concerns and providing motivation to excel. The programme's balanced approach to international and local energy law perspectives was another highlight, expanding his professional horizons by integrating numerous aspects.
Global Perspectives in a Dynamic City
The Hong Kong student experience offered Stephen more than just academic growth. The city's diverse population provided insights into global environmental challenges through daily interactions. “I've met many people here from different countries, talking about their experiences and talking about their homelands. They would tell me different stories,” he shares.
While Chinese language skills often determine career paths in Hong Kong's legal sector, Stephen found his niche in compliance at a Philippine bank. His CUHK master's degree programme has positioned him well for future opportunities in energy and environmental law, whether shaping policy in the Philippines' government sector or driving innovation in private practice.
Advice for Future Legal Scholars
For Filipino lawyers considering the scholarship and Hong Kong graduate school, Stephen's message is enthusiastic: “I'll definitely say, go for it.” He emphasises the growing importance of energy and environmental law in maintaining global peace and sustainability.
His advice for career transitions comes from experience: maintain a clear purpose and be prepared to start fresh. “As you go along the transition, you have to remember ‘why’. If you experience problems, think about ‘why am I doing this? what's the reason behind this?’” he advises.
With the increasing demand for electricity and the abundance of natural resources in the Philippines, Stephen sees numerous opportunities for Filipino lawyers in the field, particularly in promoting clean energy transitions and protecting the environment.
Excellence in Education and Environment
CUHK campus life stands out for key features, according to Stephen. First, there’s the world-class faculty: “I really like the professors. They are top tier in their fields. Listening and learning from them and their experiences was extremely enjoyable.”
The modern facilities at both CUHK’s Admiralty and Shatin campus also create an ideal learning environment, while the welcoming culture among staff and students makes navigating student life at CUHK seamless.
A Foundation for Future Impact
Stephen's experience has been one of tremendous growth, and his journey from civil litigation to environmental law exemplifies how CUHK graduate programmes can transform career trajectories. With growing energy demands and abundant natural resources in the Philippines, his specialised education positions him to contribute meaningfully to his country's sustainable development.
The combination of scholarship support, expert faculty guidance, and CUHK's diverse learning environment has equipped Stephen with the tools to make a lasting impact in energy and environmental law, whether in the Philippines or on the international stage.
