In a significant ceremony held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, the Supreme Court officiated the oath-taking of 3,942 new lawyers on Friday. Out of the 3,962 individuals who successfully passed the recent Bar examinations, nearly all attended the event to officially begin their legal careers.
Associate Justice Amy Lazaro-Javier, who will chair the 2025 Bar Examinations, delivered a poignant speech to the new barristers. She emphasized the importance of humility, honor, and humanity in their professional lives. Justice Lazaro-Javier advised the young lawyers that their character should define their profession, not the other way around. She urged them to prioritize being good human beings over merely being good lawyers.
She further highlighted that respected lawyers do not boast about their achievements but treat everyone with kindness, regardless of their social standing. Acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead, Lazaro-Javier encouraged the new lawyers to remain resilient and to rise above any setbacks they might encounter.
“Approach life with a light heart. While problems are temporary, the impact you have on others endures. Dress well to feel good, be kind, and lead a life of honor,” she advised. She concluded by reinforcing that the foundation of being a good lawyer is rooted in being a good person, advocating for a life filled with humility, honor, and humanity.
The 2024 Bar Examinations saw a total of 10,480 participants.