Supreme Court (SC) Associate Justice Samuel H. Gaerlan challenged more than 500 law graduates of Arellano University School of Law (AUSL) to dismantle public distrust in the legal profession and confront corruption directly.

Speaking at AUSL’s 87th Commencement Exercises recently at the historic Manila Hotel, Gaerlan stressed that justice “should not be a luxury only the wealthy can afford.”

He also urged the graduates to “raise the bar” in their burgeoning careers, stressing that this requires more than just adhering to rules, but also a deep commitment to integrity and moral authority.

Gaerlan painted a vivid picture of the ideal lawyer: one who promptly returns calls, simplifies complex legal jargon for clients, and charges fairly for services rendered. He underscored the importance of pro bono work, not merely as an obligation, but as a fundamental commitment to ensuring equitable access to justice for all, regardless of their financial standing.

He reminded the graduates that their individual conduct would directly influence how the public perceives the entire 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 as he implored them to utilize their legal expertise for the greater good of the nation, extending beyond personal gain.

He described the Constitution not just as a legal document, but as “a promise to the Filipino people — a promise of social justice, of equal protection under the law, of human rights that cannot be abridged” and stressed that every act of practicing law presents an opportunity to fulfill this solemn promise.