This paper examines the evolution of bar exam performance across Legal Education Institutions (LEIs) in the Philippines, from 2012 to 2023. It aims to identify and analyze trends in bar exam results, point out its implications, and understand the broader impacts of reforms within the legal education sector. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative data from official results released by the Supreme Court, with qualitative insights from institutional reports and literatures. Key findings reveal that bar exam performance exhibited significant fluctuations over the decade, with periods of notable improvement linked to reforms in curriculum and examination processes. Additionally, the results point to first-time test takers having better passing rates than repeaters. Conversely, this indicates that individuals who retake the bar are more likely to fail. There is also regional disparity in passing rates, with NCR LEIs performing better than others. As to the institution type, private LEIs outperform state LEIs. This research provides insights for policymakers, educators, and legal institutions by highlighting the key factors driving performance trends. Recommendations include close monitoring of LEI performance and imposition of sanctions to consistently low-performing schools, a review on the responsiveness of the law curriculum, and enhancement of refresher courses. A caveat, however, is that this study does not assess how well the bar exam questions relate to the skills needed to practice law. Perhaps, a better question to pose for future research would be whether the bar exam is the most effective means of determining the competencies required of lawyers.

Authors:
John Roben Ambas, Legal Education Board, Philippines
Salex E. Alibogha, Legal Education Board, Philippines
Manuel M. Barrios, Legal Education Board, Philippines
Alexander D. Dumpa, Legal Education Board, Philippines
Vynette V. De Guzman, Legal Education Board, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Atty. Salex E. Alibogha is currently a Commissioner of Legal Education Board, Republic of the Philippines representing the ranks of Active Law Practitioners . He was formerly a law professor, law practitioner, nurse, researcher and Dean of Nursing.

Ms. Vynette V. De Guzman is the Senior Education Program Specialist of the Legal Education Board in the Philippines.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Salex-Alibogha

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/salexalibogha

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