THE SUPREME Court has cancelled the 2020/2021 Bar Examinations scheduled in January because of the surge in Covid19 cases.

The high court moved the exams to February 4 and 6.

Associate Justice Marvic Leonen on Friday said over 16% percent of the Bar examinees were affected by Covid19.

“They are at risk of not being able to take the Bar examinations if the original schedule of January 23 to 25, 2022 will push through,” Leonen said.

“Also, given the current infection rate and quarantine situation of the Bar personnel, 16 of the 31 teams that will be deployed will be critically understaffed if the current schedules were maintained,” he added.

All examinees were advised to undergo quarantine by January 20.

“Bar examinees are urged to remain in solidarity with those who have been severely affected by this pandemic and last typhoon. Lawyering is not only about you. It is a noble profession founded on compassion for others,” Leonen said.

“Be patient. Take a few days off to regain your composure and then continue with your preparations,” he added.