Philippines Bar Exams Kick Off with Record-Breaking Number of Aspirants
Diplomacy

Philippines Bar Exams Kick Off with Record-Breaking Number of Aspirants

The 2026 Philippine Bar Examinations commenced on September 6, with a record-breaking 14,291 applicants registered. Security measures are in place across multiple testing centers nationwide, particularly in Metro Manila.

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  • China's Criticism Won't Affect ASEAN Summit Attendance, Palace Says

    The Philippine government stated that China's criticism of the Philippines' handling of a regional defense meeting will not affect attendance at the upcoming ASEAN Summit. China's defense ministry spokesperson had accused the Philippines of allowing a "self-serving politician" to abuse its chairmanship and create obstacles to China's participation.

  • Former Minister Almendras Awarded Japan's Order of the Rising Sun for Strengthening Ties

    Former Philippine Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Gregory Almendras has been awarded Japan's prestigious Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver, by the Japanese government. The honor recognizes his significant contributions to strengthening bilateral relations between Manila and Tokyo. Almendras has held key positions in Philippine economic development and diplomacy, fostering deeper cooperation with Japan.

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    Philippine lawmakers are calling on China to "walk the talk" and cease provocations in the West Philippine Sea if it genuinely desires peace in the region. Doubts are raised about China's sincerity as a "good faith negotiator" ahead of the ASEAN Summit.

  • China's Xi Jinping to Skip ASEAN Summit; Philippines Hopes for Attendance

    Chinese President Xi Jinping is reportedly set to skip the upcoming ASEAN summit in the Philippines this November. Beijing may send Premier Li Qiang instead, while the Philippine presidential palace expressed hope for Xi's attendance, seeing it as an opportunity to resolve disputes.