Habeas Corpuz: Not just a writ

CEBU, Philippines - He might not have topped the bar exams but a graduate of the University of  the Visayas still had his share of the limelight because of his unique name - Habeas Corpuz.

"Ang akong papa sige makasugat og words nga habeas corpus panahon sa Edsa Revolution. So pagka-anak nako kay wa man sila maka-prepare sa akong name, kalit lang siya niingon nga habeas pagpangutana sa nurse," Corpuz shared.

"Timing jud kaayo... pero bata pako gi-mind set nako nga mahimong lawyer," he added.

Corpuz, 25, is among the 1,174 law graduates who passed last year's Bar exams that reverted to the predominantly essay-type format.

In legal terminology, habeas corpus is writ requiring a person under arrest to be brought before a judge or into court to secure his release.

Corpuz said his success in the exam is a fulfillment of his parents' dream.

"Achieving the dream of my parents, which is to have a lawyer in the family, is a very precious and priceless gift and a dream come true," he said.

On a much personal note, Corpuz said it has always been his dream to have the word "Atty." before his name.

"I have the passion and desire to practice law. It has been my dream and my family's dream. So I studied hard and prepared so much from this journey," he said.

He said lots of prayer, focus and dedication form part of his armor during preparations for the bar.

"Lisod ang bar exam and sleepless nights really paid off," he said.

Aside from Corpuz, other bar passers who have interesting names included Nat King Coles, Erwin Jake Doctor, Maan Vanessa Doctor and Carlos Garcia.— (FREEMAN)