THE SUPREME COURT (SC) on Tuesday announced that 11,425 candidates completed the 2025 Bar Examinations, the largest number of finishers in Philippine history.
Out of 13,193 admitted applicants, the first-day turnout was 11,437. The exams were held over three days in 14 local testing centers (LTCs) nationwide, with provisions for examinees with disabilities.
The high court also appointed Associate Justice Samuel H. Gaerlan as Chairperson for the next Bar Exams.
Sandiganbayan Associate Justice and newly appointed SC Administrator Ma. Theresa Gomez-Estoesta presented statistics and highlighted the record turnout during the turnover ceremony at the University of Santo Tomas (UST).
Justice Lazaro-Javier pointed out Question #20, referred to as the “magical question,” which focused on the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI) 2022–2027.
She said, “It is more than just a test item — it is a tribute, a nod to the SPJI. Its goal is to raise awareness among our new lawyers.”
She added that examinees are encouraged to align with the SPJI’s principles and expected outcomes. “The SPJI is a gift from the Supreme Court. It must be nurtured by this generation and passed on to the next,” she said.
The 14 LTCs, represented by law deans, as well as personnel from UST, local government units, SC offices, and law enforcement agencies were recognized for supporting the administration of the exams.
Ms. Lazaro-Javier formally handed over responsibility for administering the Bar Exams to Justice Gaerlan, who said he would “carry on the ideals, adopt the best practices, and continue the legacy of my predecessor.”
Senior Associate Justice Marvic MVF Leonen, speaking on behalf of Chief Justice Gesmundo, said, “the work of shaping lawyers does not stop here. We must continue to mentor those who aspire to join our ranks into becoming socially committed lawyers.”
“The nobility of this profession does not lie in the mastery of the law and doctrines, but in the integrity, competence, and compassion with which this profession is practiced and lived,” he added. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking