The Supreme Court released the results of the 2025 Bar Examinations on January 7, 2026, with 5,594 out of 11,420 examinees passing, achieving a 48.98% passing rate. Notable achievements include five topnotchers from the University of Santo Tomas and a Cebuano son of fisherfolk securing sixth place. Bar Chairperson Associate Justice Amy Lazaro-Javier encouraged those who failed to persevere.
The 2025 Bar Examinations results were announced on January 7, 2026, by the Supreme Court, marking a significant milestone for aspiring lawyers in the Philippines. Out of 11,420 examinees who completed the tests held on September 7, 10, and 14, 2025, 5,594 passed, resulting in a passing rate of 48.98%. Five examinees were disqualified due to incomplete documentation, reducing the final count from an initial 11,425 completers.
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) shone brightly, with five of its graduates securing spots in the top 20. These include Spinel Albert Allauigan Declaro at rank 2 with 92.46%, Alaiza Agatep Adviento at rank 3 with 91.91%, Mark Angelo Galvez Santos at rank 5 with 91.58%, Johan Raphael Silapan Gata at rank 7 with 90.90%, and Mae Angela Damaso Locsin from UST-Legazpi at rank 16 with 89.42%. UST's passing rate stood at 87.16% for schools with over 100 takers, placing third behind Ateneo de Manila University (96.52%) and the University of the Philippines (94.63%). UST Faculty of Civil Law Dean Nilo Divina praised the achievement as a 'testament to the dedication of our students' and the support from faculty and families.
A standout story is that of Jeowy Loyloy Ompad from Cebu, who ranked 6th with 91.25%. The son of fisherfolk from Bantayan Island, Ompad grew up helping his parents fish and even skipped classes to support the family. After passing the CPA exams in 2008 and graduating as valedictorian from the University of San Jose-Recoletos in June 2025, he vowed to advocate for underprivileged communities, stating, 'Justice is hope... it will give hope to the people.'
Additionally, five personnel from the Bureau of Corrections passed, including Charles Agraba and CO3 Xerxes Sebido. BuCor Chief Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. noted their success reinforces the organization's commitment, adding that their expertise will enhance legal operations in corrections.
Addressing failures, Lazaro-Javier offered solace in her speech: 'There is nothing shameful about failing... rise again.' She emphasized that the bar does not define one's character and urged perseverance. The oath-taking for passers is set for February 6, 2026, at the Philippine Arena.
