LEONEN TO BAR PASSERS: BE BETTER THAN US
Associate Justice Marvic Leonen urged the country’s newest lawyers to “be better than us,” in a message that quickly resonated beyond the walls of the Supreme Court. The statement was directed at the 2023 Bar passers, who were formally welcomed into the legal profession in recent ceremonies. According to initial information, Leonen framed the milestone not only as a personal achievement for the passers, but also as a public trust that demands higher ethical standards. His remarks were delivered in a measured tone, highlighting both pride in the new cohort and concern over persistent challenges in the justice system.
Leonen previously chaired the 2020–2021 Bar Examinations, which were marked by major procedural shifts and an expanded use of digital tools. That experience has made him a central figure in ongoing conversations about modernizing legal education and testing in the Philippines. Based on preliminary reports, his latest address continued that reformist thread, stressing that competence must go hand in hand with integrity and empathy. He also underscored the importance of service to marginalized communities, reminding new lawyers that the law exists to protect rights and resolve disputes fairly.
The justice’s call for the new batch to surpass their predecessors has been interpreted by some legal observers as both a challenge and a caution. While he did not single out specific controversies, the message appeared to acknowledge public concerns about delays, access issues, and perceived inequalities in the legal system. As of now, there are no confirmed details on any follow-up policy initiatives tied directly to his remarks, but they have added to the ongoing discourse on legal accountability. Law schools and review centers are expected to take note, as they continue to adjust curricula in response to evolving expectations from the Bench.
For the new Bar passers, Leonen’s words serve as both inspiration and a reminder of the weight of their oath. Early reactions from some members of the legal community, as carried by local reports, suggest that many welcomed the call for a higher bar of conduct. According to initial information, younger lawyers and law students have been particularly active in online discussions, reflecting on how they can embody “better” lawyering in practice. These exchanges have largely focused on everyday legal work: careful case
