MANILA, Philippines – “Try lang. Hangga't buhay, may pag-asa.”
This became the guiding mantra of Eduardo Regio, 59, who finally passed the 2025 Bar Examinations after his 11th attempt; an achievement that underscores perseverance and an unwavering commitment to a lifelong dream of becoming a lawyer.
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| Photo courtesy/Screenshot: Bilyonaryo News Channel |
In interviews with various media outlets, Regio shared that he first took the Bar Examinations in 1993, when he was still in his early 20s. Over the decades, he experienced repeated setbacks, at times coming close to giving up entirely. Still, he said hope prevailed, compelling him to try again.
“1993, kumuha lang ako for the sake of taking. Then until 2005 no'ng na five strike, ‘yon ‘yong huling kuha ko. Nag-take ulit ako in 2015, but unluckily, 72.93%. Then sumunod, ganoon ulit, nag-try ako 2023, but 73.940 something,” Regio said in an interview with GMA News.
He was referring to the Supreme Court’s “five-strike rule,” which limits examinees to five attempts and requires a one-year refresher course for the fourth and fifth tries.
After many years, Regio decided to make the 2025 Bar Examinations his final attempt. He said he entered the exams with acceptance, ready to face whatever outcome awaited him, while still holding on to a quiet hope that his long journey would finally be rewarded.
"Sabi ko bigyan ko ng last try. Kasi sabi ko kahit papaano, hindi ako masyadong nakapaghanda noon. Tinuloy ko nag-request ako sa PUP, nag-review ako doon. Then ipinagkatiwala ko na sa Diyos. Kung ibibigay Mo, ibibigay Mo. Pag hindi wala na akong magagawa,” Regio added.
After completing the examinations, Regio returned to the headquarters of the Supreme Court, for the first time in many years, to personally wait for the release of the results. It was there that he learned he had finally passed, a moment he described as unforgettable and deeply affirming.
For Regio, his story is a testament that persistence can transcend age, time, and repeated failure; and that sometimes, one last try is all it takes.
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express