SOLAS’ induction of officers led by Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale (leftmost) [CDN Photo | Lito Tecson]
“LET me just remind you to be true to your oath. Be mindful that it is sacred and that now it is your inescapable duty to maintain the dignity, the honor and the integrity of the profession at all times and in all occasions,” Hon. Agnes Magpale said in her speech during Southwestern University PHINMA’s (SWU PHINMA) conferment of its new lawyers last July 1.
This year, SWU PHINMA takes pride in its 30 newly-passed lawyers.
For Hon. Magpale, lawyers and soon-to-be lawyers must equip themselves with integrity, and not just knowledge of the legal profession. “Integrity is to be developed every day. It is an accumulation of small but needful values,” Magpale added during her speech.
One of the conferred board passers, Atty. Aldeus Castañares summarized in three words on how he passed the exam: simplicity, balance, and moderation. “Try to simplify all your notes. Balance your time, don’t force yourself to study. I only studied 6-8 hours for during the review. Try to live a balanced life— eat well, exercise and pray,” Atty. Castañares said in his speech.
As a first-time taker, Atty. Roselle Chiu admits that reviewing for the exam was mentally, physically, financially, and emotionally draining.
Failing in many of her subjects and transferring from various schools, Atty. Chiu also expressed that failure is not a reason to give up. “I believe we are meant for greatness, we are meant for success, you are meant for success.”
The newly-elected officers of SWU PHINMA’s Student Organization of Law Students (SOLAS) were also inducted during the event.