With nine days remaining before the first part of the 2023 bar examinations commences, Associate Justice Ramon Paul Hernando urged examinees to have faith in themselves and remember their whys.

As per the guidelines of the Supreme Court, the bar examinations will be held on 17, 20 and 24 September 2023.

Hernando, the Bar Exams chair, called on the aspiring lawyers to believe in their own power and resolve and to appreciate themselves and their efforts.

"You have read innumerable pages of law readings, endured sleepless nights and years of law school recitation and examination, made sacrifices, and conquered your self-doubt and challenges to reach this point," he said.

Hernando said making it this far is already remarkable and something to be proud of and they should use this "jubilant spirit" to conquer their doubts.

"Let it propel you forward and closer to your dreams. Have faith in yourselves and reap the bounties of your hard work and perseverance," he said.

And if they do face struggles in this journey, they should think about their "why," the reason for wanting to pursue a career in law, the magistrate said.

Hernando said,"Your 'why' is your beginning, your end, your core, and your North Star. Think of the reason why you started in the very first place, and why you held on for so long. See your 'why' in your loved ones."

The SC associate justice said when the bar examinees that in their mind, their goals will be clearer.

"Look at, not how much further you need to go, but at how far you have come," he added. They must remain optimistic, Hernando said.

He added until they scale the wall and go the distance they must not lose hope and they should rest but not stop.

"We want you to succeed. Believe that you will succeed. Believe that you are meant for this. We await the moment that you finally cross the Bar," he said.