THE SUPREME Court announced that the 2025 Bar Exams set a new milestone, recording the largest number of finishers in Philippine Bar history, with 11,425 examinees completing the three-day tests.

This year’s exams also saw the highest first-day turnout, with 11,437 takers.

SC Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, Chairperson of the 2025 Bar Examinations, reported that the exams were conducted smoothly, without any accidents or untoward incidents. “There was no violence or harm to anyone,” she said.

On September 14, a turnover ceremony was held, during which Justice Lazaro-Javier handed over the responsibility of administering the Bar Exams to SC Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan, who will serve as Chairperson for the 2026 Bar.

Justice Gaerlan acknowledged the weighty responsibility of overseeing the gateway to the legal profession. He vowed to “carry on the ideals, adopt the best practices, and continue the legacy of my predecessor.”

Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen delivered the closing message on behalf of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo.