Ronald Vincent Ofrecio Gonzales, who worked as a delivery rider to support himself and once questioned whether he could make it through law school because he had never received academic honors, placed 20th in the 2025 Philippine Bar Examinations.
Gonzales, 27, graduated from the University of the East College of Law and earned a rating of 89.3125%. He was among 5,594 examinees who passed when the results were released on January 7, 2026.
His path to law included an early setback. After high school, Gonzales entered the Philippine Military Academy with the Class of 2020. He was dismissed after about a year following a disciplinary case. Gonzales said he brought food into his barracks, violated academy rules, and was charged with dishonesty after failing to take responsibility for the incident.
He later enrolled at the Philippine State College of Aeronautics and completed Aircraft Maintenance Technology. During that period, he worked as a delivery rider for about two months to earn money for his personal needs.
Gonzales eventually pursued law at UE, where a scholarship helped cover his education. He also served as president of the UE Law Student Government.
“Kahit noong nasa law school ako, wala rin po akong natatanggap na honors. So medyo parang pinanghinaan ng loob kasi sa tingin ko, parang hindi ko po kaya mag law school,” he said.
His Bar review lasted roughly three to four months. He spent mornings and afternoons studying, then listened to video lectures while using a treadmill at night. Gonzales said he took only one break every 10 days.
“Talagang tiyaga lang po. Hindi naman lahat nadadaan natin sa talino. Minsan kailangan lang po talaga natin ang puso upang magpatuloy,” he said.
He credited his mother Suerte, sister Regina, professors, friends, and faith for supporting him.
Gonzales said he plans to join the Public Attorney’s Office and help disadvantaged Filipinos who cannot afford legal representation.
