Erickson Cayabyab Mari&ntilde;as, the top 2 passer in the 2022 Bar examination from the University of the Philippines, is the first lawyer in his family.
In an interview with DZRH Balansyado, Mari&ntilde;as shared that he did not expect to top the bar and how his loved ones have been supportive of his dreams.&nbsp;
"Ine-expect na nila [parents] na mag a-abogado ako. Ayun na rin 'yung gusto nila na may abogado sa family," he said, Hanggang sa lumaki ako, naging interested na rtin ako don sa practice."
"Hindi po [inaasahan makapasok sa Top 2]. Syempre pinagdasal natin at ginawa natin ang best natin, hoping na sana mag top siya. Pero actually, hindi ko in-expect 'yung top the bar itself," he added.
He had meticulously planned his study schedule, dedicating more time to his weak subjects, and striving to read for at least 7 hours a day.&nbsp;
"Right after graduation, I planned the four months leading to the exams. 'Yung mahina akong subjects, naglalaan ako ng mas mahaba [na oras ] at 'yung mas gamay kong subjects ay mas onti. May study calendar ako," the top 2 said.
"I tried to get atleast 7 hours of studying a day, importante sa 'kin na araw-ara wmay nababasa ako para hindi ako tamarin or hindi mawala 'yung momentum until the finish line," Mari&ntilde;as added.
The UP law graduate had to make sacrifices, including putting his love life on hold, but he believed that the months of hard work were worth it.
Being contended with his current job at a law firm, he is still looking forward to pursuing litigation and aspires to become a mentor or teacher someday.&nbsp;
"I guess, gusto ko rin magturo o mag mentor ng mga students. Maganda rin na mag give back sa iba at teaching is very noble way to do that," he shared.
To aspiring lawyers, he advises taking their time, persevering, and believing that victory will come.&nbsp;
"Take your time and eventually you'll get there. Mahirap man, pero mahalaga, kaya kailangang paghirapan. Sweet naman yung victory after," he told them.
Mari&ntilde;as expressed his gratitude to his family, UP block mates, friends, and God.&nbsp;
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The Bar exams were held on November 9, 13, 16, and 20 of 2022, and the newly minted lawyers will be taking their oath on May 2.&nbsp;

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Mariñas on being top 2 Bar passer: 'Hindi ko in-expect to top the bar itself'