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Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU) proudly celebrated its newest members of the legal profession at a memorable Testimonial Dinner for the 2025 Bar Passers of the MLQU School of Law — an evening dedicated to honoring perseverance, achievement, and the remarkable journeys of its graduates.
Held at Las Casas Juico in Quezon City on February 18, the festive gathering brought together university officials, faculty members, present and former Deans, mentors, and the newly minted lawyers, many of whom are working professionals who balanced demanding careers while completing their legal education. Taking time off from their professional responsibilities, the honorees gathered to celebrate a milestone that stands as a testament to discipline, sacrifice, and determination.
The celebration was especially meaningful as MLQU achieved an 84.8% passing rate among its working student examinees, an exceptional accomplishment that reflects both individual grit and institutional support. This distinction underscores the university’s strong commitment to accessible legal education for working learners.
Chairman and President Atty. Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr. has consistently expressed admiration for such achievers, emphasizing:
“I have very high regard for lawyers who completed their degrees and passed the Bar while working. Law is no mean feat even for full-time students, much more for working students. That is what we enable aspiring lawyers to do at MLQU, to study while pursuing their careers and to gain the kind of mentorship that is unique to us.”
To strengthen this mission, he appointed Atty. Charmagne Cuevas as full-time Director for Bar Preparation and Academic Enhancement, ensuring year-round guidance, structured mentoring, and strategic academic support for law students preparing for the Bar examinations.
The evening began on a solemn yet inspiring note with a Holy Mass officiated by one of the Bar passers himself, who had previously gone viral online and was fondly referred to as the “Father in Law.” Another passer who drew admiration was a medical doctor who also passed the Bar and became widely known as the “Doctornney.” Their stories reflected the diversity, dedication, and extraordinary determination of MLQU’s law graduates.
The occasion carried even deeper significance as it coincided with Ash Wednesday, marking the start of the Lenten season. In his reflection, Father/Attorney Dulay reminded attendees that this sacred season calls on Catholics to fast, give alms, and pray. Yet, he noted with warmth and wisdom that God is both forgiving and understanding — allowing the community to celebrate that evening’s feast in honor of the new lawyers, with the intention of offering equivalent acts of sacrifice and charity thereafter. His message beautifully captured the spirit of gratitude, humility, and faith that framed the celebration.
Throughout the night, the new lawyers shared personal testimonies of sacrifice, persistence, and triumph — from late-night study sessions after long workdays to moments of doubt overcome by faith, discipline, and encouragement from mentors and peers. Their stories inspired everyone present, affirming the transformative power of education grounded in purpose and community.
The atmosphere was both elegant and joyful. Over dinner, laughter and heartfelt conversations filled the hall as faculty members expressed pride in their students’ achievements and the passers expressed gratitude to the institution that helped shape their professional paths. It was not only a celebration of success but also a reaffirmation of the strong bond between MLQU and its graduates.
The event concluded with a shared sense of accomplishment and anticipation for what lies ahead. As these new lawyers embark on their legal careers, they carry with them the values, discipline, and sense of service instilled by MLQU — ready to uphold justice and contribute meaningfully to society.