Where a Legacy of Leadership Began. Service That Transcends Generations.

Humble Beginnings and a Quiet Dream

A probinsyano with roots in Tagaytay and Amadeo, Cavite, Romeo B. Batino dreamt of building his own practice.  After passing the Bar in 1961, he took the first steps toward that vision by establishing a modest office in the Federation Center on Muelle de Binondo, Manila — armed with only one retainer and the support of his wife, Maruchi Fenóy.

At a time when the legal profession was dominated by large, well-established firms, he chose a path of quiet independence, grit, and perseverance.

Building From the Ground Up

During those early days, he took on every role in his office—working as lawyer, typist, receptionist, and messenger—handling everything from drafting legal briefs to answering phones and delivering documents. Determined to grow, he walked the courtrooms of Manila hoping to be appointed as counsel de oficio, gaining experience and expanding his network.

He also took on various roles in related fields —insurance adjuster, labor voluntary arbitrator—always seeking to broaden his knowledge and serve more clients. Eventually, he found his calling in labor law, advocating primarily for management across various industries.

A Steady Hand in Uncertain Times

During years of social and economic unrest, Atty. Batino became a trusted presence in the labor community. He helped resolve strikes, deadlocks, and high-stakes collective bargaining negotiations with a balanced approach rooted in fairness and principle.

His integrity and deep respect for due process quickly earned him a reputation for sound judgment and ethical practice, even across the workers’ sector.

A Growing Practice, A Growing Vision

As his practice matured, so did his ambition. In 1977, he moved the firm to Ermita and collaborated with lawyers from other disciplines, expanding the firm’s expertise. By 1986, the office relocated to the Mercantile Insurance Building in Intramuros, where labor law continued to be a cornerstone of the firm’s identity.

A Family Legacy Begins

Between 1990 and 1997, his children—Ma. Pacita Karla, Carlos Jose, and Pio Lorenzo—joined the practice, infusing it with new energy and dedication. His daughter, Romina, also joined to help manage its operations. With Atty. Batino’s mentorship, the firm laid a roadmap for long-term growth—anchored in professionalism, ethics, and results-driven advocacy.

A Full-Service Firm With Enduring Values 

In 2004, the firm relocated to Magallanes, Makati, marking a new chapter of client-focused, strategic legal service. From its humble beginnings, the firm evolved into a full-service practice—Batino Law Office—offering expertise in labor law, corporate and business law, taxation, family and estate law, as well as civil and criminal litigation.

Today, the firm is home to nearly 30 lawyers and a committed team of professionals, all guided by the core values Atty. Batino lived by.

A Lasting Legacy

Atty. Romeo B. Batino passed away on January 30, 2011. His influence, however, remains deeply embedded in the heart of the firm. More than its founder, he is a symbol of determination, humility, and intellect—a man whose life’s work continues to shape generations of legal professionals.

At Batino Law (Batino Talon Cacao Espinosa Campos) his vision lives on: one defined by integrity, diligence, and service to others.