Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel H. Gaerlan on Sunday urged more than 500 law graduates to help rebuild public trust in the legal profession and confront corruption head-on.

Speaking at the 87th commencement exercises of the Arellano University School of Law (AUSL), held at the historic Manila Hotel, Gaerlan challenged the graduates to “raise the bar” as they enter the legal field.

Gaerlan painted a vivid picture of the ideal lawyer—someone who returns calls promptly, communicates clearly with clients, and charges fair fees for services rendered.

He also emphasized the value of pro bono work, describing it not merely as an obligation but as a fundamental commitment to equitable access to justice, regardless of a client’s financial capacity.

Graduates were reminded that their individual conduct would shape how the public perceives the broader legal community.

“So be the lawyer who makes other lawyers proud to be associated with you. Show the public what lawyers can be at their finest,” Gaerlan said.

He also urged the graduates to use their legal skills for the greater good, not just personal gain.

Gaerlan described the Constitution as more than a legal document, calling it “a promise to the Filipino people – a promise of social justice, of equal protection under the law, of human rights that cannot be abridged.”

He added that every act of legal practice is an opportunity to fulfill that promise.

The ceremony was attended by retired Supreme Court Associate Justice and Arellano Law Foundation (ALF) Chairman Jose C. Reyes Jr., ALF Vice Chairman Francisco P.V. Cayco, AUSL Dean Domingo M. Navarro, AUSL Assistant Dean and Director for Admissions Atty. Erik C. Lazo, and ALF Executive Director Atty. Gabriel P. dela Peña.

Founded in 1938, Arellano University is named after the Philippines’ first Chief Justice, Cayetano S. Arellano.