Principles in Motion for Fulfilling Destinations

“Whatever you will achieve in the future, be humble.”

These are the words of wisdom inculcated by Judge Dinah as we sat in a short but worthwhile conversation with her.

Her power of resilience and the pursuit of her true passion reminds us that our paths can lead to unexpected and fulfilling destinations. Her disposition towards discipline, passion and determination radiates as a motivation and reminder that success in any endeavor often hinges on these core values.

Was becoming a lawyer your first dream and what inspired you to pursue a career in law?

Judge Dinah: No, my dream was to become an engineer; and to become a lawyer was my mother’s request.

Looking back on your journey, is there anything you would do differently if you had the chance?

Judge Dinah: Looking back, I considered becoming a nurse. And so, I studied nursing after I became a lawyer. But becoming a judge and practicing as a licensed nurse happened simultaneously, so I let go of working as a nurse.

How were your early days of studying law?

Judge Dinah: I enjoyed my law school days and even the Philippine Bar Examination. I have good memories of it. Difficulty was not a factor for me. It felt natural and easy due to my inclination towards it, driven by my love for reading. I basically read the whole semester in the first week or so and practiced reading the whole syllabus the moment I received it. I read all the books per subject a minimum of six times before I went to the Bar. I believe that if you do everything you’re supposed to do and when you go to the Bar Exam, it will be easy.

What can you say about having a support system in law school and how important it is especially when facing challenges.

Judge Dinah: Having a support system in law school is mandatory. Your friend in law school is your lifetime companion in your career. How you portray yourself and treat others, starts now. Because that is the start of your career. You cannot really survive without support both financially and emotionally. It will be harder without any support especially if you’re a working student because there is a demand on you. If you can’t do both at the same time, you must give up one because law school should not take a back seat.

What is the most meaningful reward you experienced as a teacher in the legal profession?

Judge Dinah: It is not natural for me to teach but no matter how hard, the reward here is when I see my students pass the Bar knowing that I played a part on their journey towards becoming a lawyer.

Conversely, what do you find most rewarding about your current profession as a Judge?

Judge Dinah: The reward is that I am part of that authority in administering justice, which really is the endgame on the part of the victim; and when the accused is innocent, he or she should be able to join his or her family and reclaim his or her life and liberty.

What are your three essential core values in life about personal growth and fulfillment?

Judge Dinah: The core essential values that I hold are humility, giving back to society and integrity.

How significant is the allocation of leisure time for individuals in the legal profession?

Judge Dinah: It is important to have a break and relaxation to prevent burn out. So, I watch Netflix shows and movies. I usually travel with my family or friends.

What academic advice would you give to someone who is seeking inspiration to pursue a career in law?

Judge Dinah: Either you sink or you swim. Law school and studying cases should be enjoyable. Read with memorization and understanding. Know the techniques on how to study the law. Each subject must be read several times. Also, have dedication to master the subjects of laws.

Hon. Dinah Jean S. Cornejo passed the 2004 Bar Examination and was admitted to the Bar in the same year. She also passed the Nursing Board Exam in 2012. She became a PAO lawyer and worked in the NEDA Central Office as Legal Officer IV in Ortigas, Pasig City. She also taught at Mindanao State University, General Santos Extension as a law professor. Currently, she is the Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court Branch 55 Hall of Justice, Cabel St., Lagao and the Acting Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court Branch 25, Koronadal City.