Metro Manila, Philippines – Fresh from topping the 2025 Bar Examinations, Jheroniel Rhey Sanchez said he plans to pursue a legal career in intellectual property and corporate law, while keeping his options open as he begins professional practice.
Sanchez, a graduate of the University of the Philippines Diliman and a licensed electrical engineer, said his interests were shaped by both his academic background and his work experience during law school, where he served as a paralegal.
“I’d rather keep my options open,” Sanchez said in an interview on The Newsmaker on Thursday, Jan. 8. “But in terms of interest, I’m generally interested in intellectual property law, and corporate law because of what I was handling when I was a paralegal.”
He said he intends to focus primarily on law, though he plans to maintain his engineering license and remain updated on developments in the field. “I do have an appreciation for electrical engineering,” he said.
Advice to law students
Now one of the most closely-watched new lawyers in the country, Sanchez offered candid advice to law students and aspiring Bar examinees, emphasizing persistence over brilliance.
“It’s never going to be a pretty victory,” he said. “You’re going to be exhausted, tired, and questioning your decision to enter law school.”
Sanchez said success in law school and the bar examinations is less about intelligence and more about resilience. “It’s about grit, tenacity, and being able to take hits and still keep standing,” he said.
He also noted that choosing to leave law school or change paths should not be seen as failure. “There’s no shame if you eventually decide this isn’t for you,” he said.
Role of lawyers
Sanchez said lawyers continue to play a vital role in society despite rapid technological change.
“Even with the advent of technology, there’s always going to be a need for a human touch,” he said. “The profession is about helping people deal with issues—whether between other people or between individuals and the law itself.”
As he prepares for his oath-taking, Sanchez said his goal is simple: to honor the responsibilities of the profession.
“I’d like to adhere to the lawyer’s oath as best as I can,” he said, “and give the best service that I can to those who need it.
