A law graduate from the University of Baguio has shattered barriers and made history by becoming the first visually impaired individual to pass the Bar examination.
Despite facing numerous obstacles and societal expectations, Anthony Mark Dulawan Emocling has defied all odds and emerged triumphant in his pursuit of becoming a lawyer – placed 1,407th place among the 3,992 passers of the 2022 Bar Examination.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH Tambayan, Emocling shared his journey and the challenges he overcame. Using computer-generated screen readers to help him read books and materials during his months of review, he also received assistance from Supreme Court staff during the exam.
"Gumamit po ako ng bagong technology, yung computer screen reading software. 'Yun na po yung mga nagbabasa sa akin ng mga reading materials ko, mga books, pati mga cases na naka-assign sa amin," he said.
"May prinovide po yung supreme court na nagbabasa po and ididictate ko na lang po yung mga sagot ko," he added.
Emocling's success has been a source of pride and inspiration for his family, and he hopes to inspire others to never give up on their dreams.
"Insprasyon ko in po 'yung mga magulang ko na 'di sumuko sa 'kin, na sinuportahan nila ako sa mga panagraap ko. Saka gusto ko rin pong makatulong sa mga tao, pati sa mga katulad ko pong PWD," the lawyer said.
He also wants to use his position as a pro bono lawyer to serve the public good and advocate for human rights, especially for persons with disabilities.
"Gusto kong sumabak sa public service, [sa] human rights specially for persons with disabilities. Makatulong din na maging boses para sa kanila [PWDs]," Emocling said.
With gratitude to his family, friends, the Supreme Court, UB School of Law, and former Dean and Narvacan, Ilocos Sur Mayor Pablito V. Sanidad Sr., Emocling's achievement is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.
Sanidad Sr. expressed his admiration for Emocling, stating that his visually impaired student's success was a testament to his unwavering determination and unrelenting spirit.
"Congratulations Anthony Mark Dulawan Emocling!!! My blind student at the University of Baguio, School of Law, who against all the odds and despite being blind is now a Lawyer!" Sanidad said in a Facebook post.
The University of Baguio also lauded Emocling's achievement, hailing him as a source of inspiration for future generations.
"Congratulations to #UniversityOfBaguio alumnus, Anthony Mark Dulawan Emocling, for making history as the 1st visually-impaired examinee who successfully passed the 2022 Bar Examinations! Let’s give him our warmest applause!” said the university.
