Supreme Court Associate Justice Joseph Y. Lopez urged graduates of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) College of Law to consider careers in government, saying the country needs principled and competent lawyers in public service.

Speaking during the PUP College of Law Year-End Commencement Exercises and Conferment of Juris Doctor Degrees on 3 July in Manila, Lopez encouraged the graduates not to automatically reject opportunities to serve in government.

"Service does not always need a title. But if public office comes your way, do not automatically run from it. We need good people there," Lopez said.

He reminded the graduates that, as Iskolar ng Bayan, they have a responsibility to use their legal education to advance justice and improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos.

Lopez said PUP seeks to produce lawyers who understand not only the law but also the social realities behind legal disputes.

"Legal problems come with poverty, fear, delay, unequal bargaining power, and lack of access. The law gives remedies. A PUP lawyer must see the lives behind them," he said.

Drawing from his own career, Lopez recalled that his understanding of the law was shaped by his early years in public service as a Manila city councilor, where he encountered the everyday concerns of citizens seeking permits, government services, livelihood opportunities, and solutions to community disputes.

He said those experiences taught him that politics, at its core, is about making difficult decisions on how limited government resources should be distributed fairly.

"Who needs help first? Where should limited funds go? Which communities have waited too long? How should government decide when not everyone can receive everything at once?" Lopez said.

He urged the graduates not to leave politics to those who misuse public office for personal gain.

"Public power must serve the public good. We need lawyers who understand evidence, procedure, fairness, and accountability. We need lawyers who can enter public life without losing conscience," he said.

Lopez also reflected on his years as Manila city prosecutor and later as an associate justice of the Court of Appeals, saying the work of lawyers and judges is ultimately about delivering justice rather than yielding to pressure or convenience.

"Every case folder represents people waiting for an answer. A missed remedy can change a life. So can delay, careless work, or advice given without understanding the person who must live with its consequences," he said.

The justice also shared the setbacks he experienced throughout his career, revealing that he was appointed to the Supreme Court only after eight unsuccessful attempts.

"The Supreme Court came after eight attempts. Eight times I hoped. Eight times the answer was no before the door finally opened," he said.

"So when I tell you not to give up, I say it from experience. Never rest until you get it, if what you are pursuing is anchored on service and not mere title."

Lopez also spoke about overcoming a personal health struggle, saying it changed his perspective on life and reinforced the importance of using time wisely and carrying out one's duties with purpose.

As the graduates prepare for the Bar examinations and legal practice, Lopez urged them to study diligently, care for their health, and remain guided by the reasons they chose to pursue law.

"When you become lawyers, people will rely on your advice, candor, preparation, and judgment," he said.