Kiko Pangilinan Urges New Lawyers to Choose Service Over Prestige
KIKO PANGILINAN – Senator Kiko Pangilinan stirred conversation online after sharing a strong message for those who recently passed the 2025 Bar Examinations.
In his post, Pangilinan reminded the new lawyers that earning the title “Atty.” carries responsibilities that go far beyond personal achievement.
“Welcome to the work of lawyering. Sa panahong parang walang batas at nilulunod ang bansa sa kurakot, hindi lang flex ang pagiging ‘Atty.’ Tungkulin ito,”
said Pangilinan. His words underscored the idea that the legal profession plays a crucial role in protecting democratic institutions and defending the rights of ordinary citizens.
Photo Source: Rolling Stone Philippines
The senator emphasized that the country urgently needs principled lawyers across various sectors.
“Kailangan kayo sa pamahalaan, sa mga korte, sa mga unyon, at sa mga pamayanan. Piliin ang maglingkod kahit na magulo at hindi glamoroso,”
said Pangilinan. According to him, true fulfillment in the profession comes from choosing service, even when the work is difficult, complex, and far from glamorous.
Pangilinan also challenged the new lawyers to practice with a strong moral grounding.
“Practice with integrity, consistency, and a bias for truth and social justice. Be lawyers who ask who benefits, who gets left out, and who pays the price. Then act.”
This call highlights the importance of critical thinking and ethical action in shaping a more just society.
He further reminded them that passing the Bar is only the beginning of their journey.
“The Bar is not a finish line. It is a gate to what you can do. Nag-uumpisa pa lang ang exciting part,”
the senator said, encouraging them to see their careers as opportunities for meaningful impact.
Photo Source: ABS-CBN
Pangilinan also offered words of comfort to those who did not pass.
“Not everything that fails is lost. Failing the Bar is not a final judgment on your intelligence, grit, or calling. It’s simply one snapshot, not the whole story,”
said Pangilinan.
Records show that 5,594 examinees passed out of the 11,000 who took the Bar examinations in September 2025, marking another significant chapter in the country’s legal history.
Photo Source: @kikopangilinan X
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