Dubbed the “Super Seven”, the pioneering batch of graduates from the Bicol University College of Law (BUCL) embarked on a historic feat as they took part in the 2023 Bar examinations at the regional testing center at the University of Nueva Caceres in Naga City. With Maria Feona Imperial, batch valedictorian, leading the way, BUCL is hopeful that its first-ever bar examinees will hurdle the three-day examinations, which started on Sept. 17 and will resume on Sept. 20 and 24. Other members of the batch are Monica Calleja, Shiela Marie Gonzales, Don Don Nopre, Andre Maurice Rey, April Jane Moral, and Suzene Cajegas. Lawyer Joseph Bartolata, BUCL dean, said the college has “set a high bar” for its pioneer batch as they have “shown unwavering commitment and solid inner resolve to face the various challenges head-on.” “With a legacy of quality education that BU is known for, BUCL is confident that the ‘Super Seven’ will live up to everyone’s expectations. Their journey epitomizes the college’s dedication to nurturing legal scholars who will eventually contribute to nation-building in whatever capacity,” Bartolata said. In an interview, Imperial revealed that the exams on the first day were “very tough.” Echoing the statement of Associate Justice Ramon Paul Hernando, chairperson of the 2023 Bar examinations, that the Bar exams are designed to test not only their knowledge but also their resolve. “At the end of the day, we only hope to offer our best work, completely surrender this battle to the Supreme Being, and trust that He will see us through,” she said. Fellow BU barrister, Suzene Cajegas, said that she had to modify her study habits and strategize her study schedule to prepare for the exams. Asked what her formula is for reviewing for the Bar, Cajegas replied, “Pray, study, and pray.” In his speech during the first BUCL recognition rites, lawyer Hardy Aquende, the founding dean, pledged a PHP100,000 cash incentive to any of the graduates who would top the 2023 Bar exams. In a statement released earlier, the Supreme Court said the results of this year’s Bar examinations are likely to be out in early December or before Christmas Day
Source: Philippines News Agency