Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan, chairperson of the 2026 Bar Examinations, said he hopes the next batch of lawyers will use their profession to help address the country’s problems instead of adding to them.
In a press conference, Gaerlan said aspiring lawyers who pass the Bar should look beyond their personal interests and recognize their responsibility to the nation.
“Inaasahan namin from our part na yung mga susunod o darating na mga bagong abogado ay hindi lang para sa kanilang sarili, kundi para sa bayan,” Gaerlan said.
He expressed hope that the new lawyers would contribute to solving the problems confronting the country.
“Alam natin na maraming mga problema sa ating bansa. Nawa’y sila ay makatulong sa mga suliraning ito at hindi makadagdag sa mga problema ng ating bansa,” he added.
Gaerlan stressed that the Bar examiners are not out to prevent aspiring lawyers from achieving their dreams, saying he wants as many candidates as possible to become lawyers.
“As much as possible, gusto din natin maging abogado silang lahat,” he said, adding the questions and guidelines for the examinations were made to be fair and reasonable.
Gaerlan also said he understands the aspirations of the examinees and divulged that he likewise hopes his own children will become lawyers.
“Hindi kami balakid sa kanilang mga inaasam. Hindi kami balakid sa kanilang mga minimithi,” he said.
For Gaerlan, passing the Bar should mark not only the fulfillment of a personal dream but also the beginning of a responsibility to serve the country.#