MANILA, Philippines — “Atty. Alvin Abogado.”
A man whose surname literally translates to “lawyer” has captured public attention after passing the 2025 Bar examinations, a feat that many netizens say feels almost destined.
In an interview with ABS-CBN News on Thursday, Abogado shared that being called “attorney” had long been a running joke in his life—years before he ever considered studying law.
“Bata pa lang po ako may mga ganun na, bawat po makita ako sasabihin, ‘attorney.’ Eh hindi pa naman ako nagtatake ng law noon,” he recalled.
Abogado initially pursued a different career path, earning a degree in Medical Technology and working at the Labo District Hospital in Camarines Norte.
His decision to enter law school came years later, influenced by his experience as a job order medical frontliner during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Abogado, issues surrounding compensation and discrimination among contractual workers motivated him to better understand labor rights.
“Compensation and discrimination ang pinaka-problem namin… At kahit alam mo yung karapatan mo, mananahimik ka na lang kasi hindi mo po alam paano ipaglaban,” he said, noting how job insecurity often silences workers who lack legal recourse.
Although he has since been regularized after eight years of service, Abogado said he has no immediate plans to leave his post at the hospital. Instead, he hopes his new credentials will allow him to help others navigate labor-related concerns.
“Ang pangarap ko lang… i-spread yung justice and yung access sa justice ng mga marginalized people at tsaka under-represented,” he shared.
Abogado also expressed deep gratitude to his wife, who supported him throughout law school, even as it delayed their plans to grow their family. He began studying law shortly after their first child was born, balancing school, work, and family responsibilities.
On Wednesday, Abogado was with his wife and daughter when he learned that he had passed the Bar on his first attempt.
Despite the symbolism of his surname, Abogado admitted that becoming a lawyer was never his childhood dream—one that he ultimately fulfilled.
Congratulations, Atty. Abogado!
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express