ILOILO City – A total of 3,962 successful Bar examinees took their oath yesterday at the SMX Convention Center in Manila, marking their formal entry into the legal profession.
Supreme Court Associate Justice Mario V. Lopez, the 2024 Bar Exam chairperson, presided over the ceremony, while Supreme Court Associate Justice Amy Lazaro-Javier, the incoming chairperson for the 2025 Bar Exams, delivered an inspiring address to the newly sworn-in lawyers.
Justice Lazaro-Javier emphasized that being a lawyer goes beyond the prestigious title of “Atty.,” which is uniquely recognized in the Philippines.
“It should not be the title that defines the person, but the person who must define the title,” she remarked, urging young lawyers to prioritize being good human beings above all else.
Justice Lazaro-Javier also shared eight key lessons from her 40 years of legal experience, emphasizing virtues that extend beyond technical expertise.
She stressed that true respect is earned through humility, not by flaunting credentials. “Good lawyers worthy of respect do not brag. They treat everyone with kindness, no matter their status,” she said.
Lazaro-Javier emphasized that integrity is paramount. “Your words ought to be as precious as your own life. Once you give your word, keep it at all costs — unless it means death.”
She urged new lawyers to strive for the highest standards, regardless of the task’s scale. “Anything worth doing is worth doing well,” she said, warning against complacency even in minor matters.
The magistrate also noted that resilience is vital. “When you fall down, stay there for a while if you must, but only for a little while. Gather your strength and rise,” she stressed.
She also encouraged the newly minted lawyers to use humor to lighten tense situations and bring joy to the workplace.
“Tread on life lightly. Problems will pass, but how you make others feel will stay with them,” she said.
Lazaro-Javier also emphasized that self-care reflects professionalism. “Your appearance reflects respect for yourself, your clients, and the legal profession.”
For Lazaro-Javier, kindness leaves a lasting impact. Quoting Mother Teresa, she said, “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.”
Likewise, she urged the new lawyers to uphold integrity as a legacy. She quoted Seneca: “Life is never incomplete if it is an honorable life.”
Justice Lazaro-Javier also reminded the new lawyers that passing the Bar is just the beginning.
“The Bar is merely an entry-level test,” she said, emphasizing that greater challenges requiring grit and resilience lie ahead.
She also urged the new lawyers to embody the profession’s ideals. “Being a good lawyer starts with being a good person. Choose to live a life of humility, honor, and humanity.”/PN
