BAR EXAMINATIONS

FULL LIST: 2025 BAR Exam Results List of Passers

June 2, 2025
Apple Majait

UPDATE:The results of the 2025 Bar Examinations have not yet been released. This post will be updated with the official results as soon as they are released by the Supreme Court.

BAR Examinations Results SC/File Photo
BAR Examinations Results SC/File Photo

UST to Host 2025 Bar Examinations: A New Chapter for Legal Aspirants

Manila, Philippines – The University of Santo Tomas (UST), a venerable institution steeped in history and academic excellence, has been chosen as the national headquarters for the 2025 Bar Examinations. This significant announcement, made by Bar Examinations Chairperson Associate Justice Amy Lazaro-Javier during a recent UST Law Review event, marks a new chapter for aspiring lawyers across the Philippines.

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The decision to shift the national headquarters from San Beda College-Alabang, which hosted the 2023 and 2024 examinations, underscores UST’s long-standing reputation as a leading center for legal education. Its sprawling campus in Sampaloc, Manila, will not only serve as the central hub for the administration of the exams but will also function as one of the numerous testing centers nationwide. This strategic choice ensures accessibility for examinees from various regions.

The 2025 Bar Examinations, scheduled for three days – September 7th, 10th, and 14th – will cover the traditional core subjects: Political and Public International Law; Commercial and Taxation Laws; Civil Law; Labor Law and Social Legislations; Criminal Law; Remedial Law; and Legal and Judicial Ethics with Practical Exercises. This comprehensive curriculum reflects the rigorous standards maintained by the Supreme Court in evaluating aspiring legal professionals.

The announcement also provided crucial information for prospective examinees. The Supreme Court has set the application deadline for March 17th, 3:00 PM. This tight timeframe necessitates immediate action for those seeking to participate in the upcoming examinations. Aspiring lawyers are urged to carefully review the application requirements and submit their applications well in advance of the deadline to avoid any last-minute complications.

Looking ahead, Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan has been named the Bar Chairperson for the 2026 Bar Examinations. This appointment ensures continuity in the leadership of this crucial process and maintains the high standards of integrity and fairness that characterize the Philippine Bar Examinations.

The choice of UST as the national headquarters for the 2025 Bar Examinations is more than just a logistical decision; it’s a symbolic gesture. It reflects the enduring legacy of UST in shaping legal minds and contributing to the legal profession in the Philippines. As future lawyers prepare for this challenging yet rewarding journey, the historical walls of UST will serve as a testament to their dedication and a backdrop to their pursuit of legal excellence. The upcoming examinations promise to be a pivotal moment, not only for the individual aspirants but also for the continued evolution of the Philippine legal landscape. The legacy of the 2025 Bar Exams, held within the esteemed halls of UST, will undoubtedly be one of rigorous testing, unwavering determination, and ultimately, the celebration of future legal professionals.

UP Graduate Claims Top Spot in 2024 Bar Examinations: A Triumph of Academic Excellence

Manila, Philippines – In a resounding victory for the University of the Philippines (UP), Kyle Christian Tutor has emerged as the top scorer in the recently concluded 2024 Bar Examinations. The Supreme Court (SC) announced the results on Friday, revealing Tutor’s impressive overall rating of 85.7700 percent. This triumph underscores UP’s continued dominance in legal education and the exceptional talent nurtured within its esteemed College of Law.

The results paint a picture of both fierce competition and remarkable achievement. A total of 3,962 out of 10,490 examinees passed the rigorous examinations, resulting in a passing rate of 37.84 percent. This figure, while representing a significant accomplishment for those who passed, also highlights the demanding nature of the Bar and the exceptional caliber of those who succeeded.

UP’s dominance extended beyond Tutor’s top ranking. Four of the top ten highest-scoring examinees hailed from UP College of Law, a testament to the institution’s rigorous curriculum and dedicated faculty. The remaining top ten spots were filled by graduates from a diverse range of prestigious universities, including Ateneo de Manila University (two graduates), Angeles University Foundation, University of Mindanao, Western Mindanao State University, and San Beda University-Manila. This diversity reflects the broad reach of legal excellence across the Philippines.

The complete list of top ten examinees showcases the exceptional talent within the legal field:

  1. Kyle Christian Tutor, UP College of Law: 85.7700%
  2. Maria Christina S. Aniceto, Ateneo de Manila University: 85.5400%
  3. Gerald C. Roxas, Angeles University Foundation School of Law: 84.3550%
  4. John Philippe E. Chua, UP College of Law: 84.2800%
  5. Jet Ryan P. Nicolas, UP College of Law: 84.2650%
  6. Maria Lovelyn Joyce S. Quebrar, UP College of Law: 84.0600%
  7. Kyle Andrew P. Isaguirre, Ateneo de Manila University: 83.9050%
  8. Joji S. Macadine, University of Mindanao: 83.7450%
  9. Gregorio Jose II S. Torres, Western Mindanao State University: 83.5900%
  10. Raya B. Villacorta, San Beda University-Manila: 83.4700%

The SC also released data highlighting the performance of law schools. A remarkable 130 out of 142 schools boasted successful examinees. Among the 13 law schools with over 100 first-time examinees, Ateneo de Manila University led the pack with a stunning 96.36% passing rate (159 out of 165 takers), followed closely by UP (93.08%), San Beda University-Manila (91.538%), University of Santo Tomas-Manila (88.72%), and University of San Carlos (85.45%).

This year’s Bar Examinations results serve as a powerful testament to the dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence of aspiring lawyers across the Philippines. The success of UP graduates, coupled with the strong performance of other leading universities, underscores the high standards of legal education in the country and promises a bright future for the Philippine legal profession.

Committee of Bar Examiners

The Philippine Bar Examinations stand as a formidable challenge, a crucible forging the nation’s future legal minds. But behind the rigorous questions and meticulous grading lies a body equally crucial to the process: the Committee of Bar Examiners. This unsung force, appointed by the Supreme Court, holds the key to shaping the legal landscape for years to come.

The Committee is far more than a simple question-writing team. It’s a multifaceted entity, responsible for the entire examination lifecycle. From crafting the challenging questions that test the mettle of aspiring lawyers to implementing procedural guidelines, executing the examination itself, meticulously grading the papers, and finally, releasing the eagerly awaited results—the Committee’s influence is pervasive and profound. [10]

At the helm sits a Justice of the Supreme Court, selected by their peers for a one-year term. This high-level appointment underscores the significance of the Committee’s role within the judicial system. The Justice’s leadership ensures the integrity and impartiality of the process, providing a crucial link between the Supreme Court and the future generation of legal professionals.

However, the Justice is only one piece of the intricate puzzle. Supporting them are eight esteemed members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), also serving one-year terms. [10] These legal experts, chosen for their experience, knowledge, and unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of legal practice, bring a wealth of practical experience to the table. Their collective expertise ensures a balanced and comprehensive approach to the examination’s design and evaluation.

A unique aspect of the Committee’s composition adds a layer of intrigue to the process. While the identity of the presiding Justice is publicly known, the members of the IBP remain anonymous until the successful examinees are sworn in—approximately six months after the Bar Examinations conclude. [10] This veil of secrecy safeguards the integrity of the grading process, preventing any potential influence or bias from impacting the results. It underscores the commitment to fairness and impartiality that lies at the heart of the Philippine Bar Examinations.

The Committee of Bar Examiners is far more than just a group of examiners; they are the guardians of the gate, the silent architects of a nation’s legal future. Their dedication, expertise, and commitment to upholding the highest standards ensure that only the most capable and deserving individuals enter the esteemed ranks of the Philippine legal profession. Their work, though largely unseen, is undeniably the bedrock upon which the legal system is built.

The Architects of Legal Excellence: A Look at Philippine Bar Exam Chairpersons

The Philippine Bar Examinations stand as a pivotal moment in the lives of aspiring lawyers, a rigorous test of knowledge and resilience. Guiding this crucial process are the Bar Exam Chairpersons, esteemed members of the Supreme Court entrusted with overseeing the examination’s integrity and fairness. Their leadership shapes not only the examination itself but also the future of the Philippine legal profession.

The following table provides a glimpse into the distinguished individuals who have held this significant role, highlighting the continuity and evolution of the Bar Exams over the past two decades:

YearBar Exam Chairperson
2001Associate Justice Sabino De Leon Jr.
2002Associate Justice Vicente Mendoza
2003Associate Justice Jose Vitug
2004Associate Justice Leonardo Quisumbing
2005Associate Justice Romeo Callejo Sr.
2006Associate Justice Angelina Sandoval-Gutierrez
2007Associate Justice Adolfo Azcuna
2008Associate Justice Dante Tiñga
2009Associate Justice Antonio Eduardo Nachura
2010Associate Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales
2011Associate Justice Roberto A. Abad
2012Associate Justice Martin Villarama
2013Associate Justice Arturo Brion
2014Associate Justice Diosdado Peralta
2015Associate Justice Teresita de Castro
2016Associate Justice Presbitero Velasco Jr.
2017Associate Justice Lucas Bersamin
2018Associate Justice Mariano del Castillo
2019Associate Justice Estela Perlas-Bernabe
2020Postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic
2021Associate Justice Marvic Leonen
2022Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa
2023Associate Justice Ramon Paul Hernando
2024Associate Justice Mario V. Lopez
2025Associate Justice Amy Lazaro-Javier
2026Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan
2027Associate Justice Ricardo Rosario

This list represents a legacy of legal expertise and dedication. Each Chairperson has played a vital role in upholding the integrity and standards of the Bar Examinations, shaping the future of the Philippine legal profession one examination at a time. The consistent appointment of highly respected members of the Supreme Court underscores the importance of this role and the unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of legal practice in the Philippines.

Philippine Bar Exams: A Seismic Shift in Structure and Schedule

The Philippine Bar Examinations, a grueling test of legal acumen and endurance, has undergone a significant transformation, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the legal profession in the Philippines. For decades, the exams were a marathon spread across four Sundays in November, a relentless assault on examinees’ mental and physical fortitude. Two subjects, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, were tackled each week, demanding unwavering focus and stamina. However, the 2023 Bar Examinations ushered in a new era, drastically altering the format and timeline.

The seismic shift is immediately apparent: the examination period has been compressed from four Sundays in November to three consecutive days in September. This change alone represents a monumental shift in approach, moving away from a drawn-out, potentially demoralizing process to a more concentrated, albeit arguably more intense, period of assessment. Furthermore, the number of subjects has been reduced from eight to six, a move that, while seemingly lessening the burden, still presents a formidable challenge.

The new structure divides the examination into three distinct days, each focusing on a specific cluster of legal disciplines. This restructuring has implications far beyond mere scheduling; it suggests a potential re-evaluation of the weighting and emphasis placed on different areas of legal study.

Day 1: Public Law and Commercial Matters – A Broad Sweep

The first day encompasses a vast array of public law subjects. From the bedrock principles of Political Law and Constitutional Law to the intricacies of Administrative Law, Election Law, and Public International Law, examinees are tested on their understanding of the state’s structure, functions, and interactions with both its citizens and the international community. This section also delves into the complex world of Commercial and Taxation Laws, covering Corporate Law, Partnership, Insurance Law, Banking Laws, and Intellectual Property Law. The inclusion of the Securities Regulation Code, Data Privacy Act, Electronic Commerce Act, Access Devices Registration Act, Philippine Competition Act, and Public Services Act underscores the growing importance of these areas in modern Philippine jurisprudence.

Day 2: Civil Law and Labor Relations – The Human Element

Day two shifts focus to the realm of Civil Law and Labor Relations. This section covers fundamental principles like the Effect and Application of Laws, Human Relations, Persons and Family Relations, Property and Ownership, and different modes of acquiring ownership. The intricacies of Wills and Succession, Obligations and Contracts, and various specific contract types (Sales, Lease, Agency, Credit Transactions) are also explored. The day concludes with a comprehensive examination of Labor Law, from fundamental principles and recruitment to labor standards, social welfare benefits, and labor relations.

Day 3: Criminal Law and Remedial Procedures – Justice in Action

The final day tackles Criminal Law and Remedial Law. Examinees are tested on their understanding of fundamental concepts, the Revised Penal Code, and Special Penal Laws. Practical exercises are incorporated, demanding not just theoretical knowledge but also the ability to apply legal principles to real-world scenarios. The section on Remedial Law covers general principles, jurisdiction, and the intricacies of various procedural rules, including Civil Procedure, Special Civil Actions, Special Proceedings, Special Writs, Criminal Procedure, and Evidence. The examination concludes with Legal and Juridical Ethics, again with practical exercises to assess the examinees’ ethical compass.

A New Era for the Bar Examinations?

The changes implemented in the 2023 Bar Examinations represent a significant departure from the established norm. While the compressed timeline and reduced subject count might seem to lessen the overall burden, the intensified focus on each subject area demands a higher level of preparation and a more strategic approach to studying. The long-term effects of this restructuring remain to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Philippine Bar Examinations have entered a new era, demanding a new level of adaptability and preparedness from aspiring lawyers. The success of this new format will undoubtedly be a subject of ongoing discussion and analysis within the legal community. The question remains: will this streamlined approach ultimately improve the quality of legal professionals entering the Philippine bar, or will it simply create a new set of challenges for future examinees?

Decoding the Philippine Bar Exams: A Comprehensive Guide to the Grading System

The Philippine Bar Examinations stand as a formidable challenge, a rigorous assessment demanding years of dedicated study and unwavering perseverance. Navigating this complex process requires not only legal acumen but also a clear understanding of the grading system itself. This article dissects the intricacies of how your performance across six core subjects translates into your overall score, providing clarity and insight for aspiring lawyers.

The Weighted Average: A Closer Look

The six bar subjects are independently graded, each contributing to the overall average with a specific weight. This weighted system recognizes the varying importance and scope of each subject within the legal landscape. Let’s break down the subject weights:

SubjectWeight
Political and Public International Law15%
Commercial and Taxation Laws20%
Civil Law20%
Labor Law and Social Legislation10%
Criminal Law10%
Remedial Law, Legal and Judicial Ethics (with Practical Exercises)25%

This weighting system isn’t arbitrary; it reflects the relative emphasis placed on each area within the legal profession. For instance, the higher weighting given to Remedial Law, Commercial Law, and Civil Law highlights their crucial role in everyday legal practice.

The Passing Threshold: 75% – A High Bar

The passing average is set at a demanding 75%. This isn’t simply an average of your scores; it’s a weighted average, factoring in the percentage contribution of each subject. Achieving this score requires consistent high performance across all six subjects. Furthermore, there’s a crucial caveat: no grade in any single subject can fall below 50%. A failing grade in even one subject, regardless of stellar performance in others, results in failure of the entire examination.

Strategic Implications: Planning for Success

Understanding the weighted average is crucial for effective study planning. Students should allocate their study time proportionally to the weight of each subject. Spending more time on Commercial and Taxation Laws (20%) and Civil Law (20%) makes strategic sense, given their significant contribution to the overall score. However, neglecting any subject is risky due to the 50% minimum requirement in each.

Beyond the Numbers: The Holistic Approach

While mastering the grading system is vital, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. The Bar Exams test more than just rote memorization; they assess critical thinking, legal reasoning, and the ability to apply legal principles to complex scenarios. Therefore, a holistic approach that combines thorough understanding of the law with effective exam-taking strategies is essential for success.

This detailed breakdown of the Philippine Bar Exams grading system provides a clear roadmap for aspiring lawyers. By understanding the weighting system and the passing requirements, candidates can strategize their preparation effectively and increase their chances of success. Remember, preparation is key, but understanding the system is just as crucial.

The Philippine Bar: A Tightrope Walk Between Standards and Access to the Legal Profession

The Philippine Bar Examinations, a grueling test of legal knowledge and endurance, have long been a source of both national pride and intense scrutiny. While the exams aim to uphold the integrity of the legal profession by ensuring only competent individuals are admitted to practice, the interplay between the passing average and the passing rate reveals a complex and often contentious debate about standards versus access.

Two Sides of the Same Coin: Passing Average and Passing Rate

The passing average, the minimum grade required for admission to the bar, and the passing rate, the percentage of examinees who achieve that minimum, are intrinsically linked yet represent distinct aspects of the examination’s impact. The passing average sets the bar for individual competency, while the passing rate reflects the overall success of examinees, providing a broader measure of the examination’s difficulty and the effectiveness of legal education in the Philippines.

A Historical Perspective: Fluctuations in Standards

Historically, the passing average has fluctuated significantly, reflecting shifting priorities and societal needs. In the post-war years, a more lenient approach was adopted, with passing averages as low as 69% in 1947 and 69.45% in 1946. This resulted in higher passing rates, admitting a larger number of new lawyers to address the growing demands of a nation rebuilding itself.

However, since 1982, the passing average has been firmly set at 75%, a dramatic shift that has had profound consequences. This stricter standard, intended to ensure higher competency among new lawyers, has led to a dramatic decline in the national passing rate. The contrast is stark: from a high of 75.17% in 1954, the rate plummeted to a historic low of 16.59% in 1999. The situation was even more dire in 2007, where a single-digit passing rate of 5% was narrowly averted only through an emergency intervention by the Supreme Court, lowering the passing average to 70% and adjusting disqualification criteria.

The Current Landscape: A Balancing Act

In recent years, the national passing rate has stabilized within a range of 20% to 30%. This relatively consistent, yet still low, rate highlights the ongoing tension between maintaining high standards and ensuring sufficient access to the legal profession. The low passing rate has raised concerns about the quality of legal education, the effectiveness of bar review courses, and the overall preparedness of law graduates. It also raises questions of equity, as the high failure rate disproportionately affects students from disadvantaged backgrounds who may lack access to the resources needed to succeed in the rigorous examinations.

The Debate Continues: Striking a Balance

The debate surrounding the appropriate passing average and the resulting passing rate remains a complex and multifaceted issue. Advocates for a higher passing average emphasize the importance of maintaining the integrity and competence of the legal profession. They argue that a rigorous examination is essential to protect the public interest. On the other hand, those who advocate for a lower passing average or alternative assessment methods highlight the need for greater access to the legal profession, particularly for individuals from marginalized communities.

The Supreme Court, tasked with balancing these competing concerns, faces a significant challenge. Finding a solution that upholds high standards while ensuring equitable access to the legal profession is a crucial task that will continue to shape the future of the Philippine legal landscape. The ongoing discussion necessitates a comprehensive review of legal education, bar review preparation, and the examination itself, aiming for a system that fosters both excellence and inclusivity. The ultimate goal is to create a legal profession that is both highly competent and representative of the diverse population it serves.

Philippine Law Schools: A Shifting Landscape of Legal Excellence

The legal profession in the Philippines demands rigorous training and unwavering dedication. Aspiring lawyers face the formidable challenge of the Philippine Bar Examinations, a critical gateway to a rewarding yet demanding career. The performance of law schools in these examinations serves as a key indicator of their effectiveness in preparing students for this pivotal test, shaping the landscape of legal education in the country. While a 2015 ranking based on 2012-2014 Bar Exam results offers a snapshot of the past, understanding this historical data allows us to appreciate the dynamic nature of legal education and the ongoing competition among leading institutions.

A Look Back: The 2015 Top Ten

The Legal Education Board’s December 2015 ranking, based on the cumulative performance of law schools in the 2012, 2013, and 2014 Bar Examinations, provided a valuable benchmark. The ranking considered only law schools with 20 or more examinees, ensuring a statistically significant sample size. The results revealed a clear hierarchy among the top contenders:

  1. University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law: Consistently ranked among the top performers, UP College of Law’s reputation for academic rigor and its distinguished faculty continue to attract top students.
  2. Ateneo de Manila University School of Law: A close second, Ateneo de Manila University School of Law maintains a strong tradition of legal scholarship and practical training, producing highly successful bar examinees.
  3. San Beda University College of Law: San Beda University’s College of Law consistently ranks among the top law schools, known for its rigorous curriculum and dedicated faculty.
  4. University of San Carlos College of Law: The University of San Carlos College of Law demonstrates its commitment to legal excellence through its strong performance in the Bar Examinations.
  5. Ateneo de Davao University School of Law: Ateneo de Davao University’s School of Law showcases the high quality of legal education offered outside of Metro Manila.
  6. University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Civil Law: The University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Civil Law, with its long history and rich tradition, continues to be a significant player in Philippine legal education.
  7. University of Cebu College of Law: The University of Cebu College of Law demonstrates the growing strength of legal education in the Visayas region.
  8. San Beda College Alabang School of Law: San Beda College Alabang’s School of Law provides a strong alternative for students seeking a high-quality legal education in the south of Metro Manila.
  9. Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) College of Law: PLM College of Law’s inclusion in the top ten highlights its commitment to providing accessible and high-quality legal education.
  10. Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan School of Law: Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan School of Law’s presence in the top ten showcases the strength of legal education in Mindanao.

The Evolving Landscape: Beyond the 2015 Ranking

It’s crucial to acknowledge that this ranking reflects data from several years ago. The legal education landscape is dynamic; rankings shift as institutions adapt their curricula, teaching methodologies, and support systems for students. To gain a truly up-to-date understanding of the current top performers, one must consult the most recent data released by the Legal Education Board. This data will provide a more accurate reflection of the current strengths of various law schools in preparing students for the Bar Examinations.

The consistent high performance of certain universities underscores the importance of a robust legal education system. However, this ranking should not be the sole metric used to evaluate a law school. Factors such as faculty expertise, teaching methodologies, student support services, and the overall learning environment all contribute to the success of students. Aspiring lawyers should research various institutions, considering their individual needs and career aspirations.

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