From becoming Polytechnic University of the Philippines‘ (PUP’s) first transwoman valedictorian to passing the 2023 Bar Examinations, there’s no stopping Ianne Gamboa from soaring into the sky. Apart from her determination, she is also fueled by the “acceptance, love, and support” given by her parents.
In an interview with Traffic Digest, Ianne shared how her parents helped her be the person she wanted to be and more by allowing her to embrace her true self.
“I started using garments that are for women when I was 10 years old. Prior to that, I knew that I am a woman. I just wanted it to be confirmed by my physical attributes,” she said.
“My family supported me from the beginning of my transition. My parents bought me bags that were for girls when I was an elementary student. They accepted and loved me for who and what I am. I did not come out to my family because, at a very young age, I was really expressive that I was more feminine and I preferred using female stuff,” she went on.
Her parents’ love made her realize how she could push herself to the limits and dream even bigger without concealing her identity and preferences; making statements through her actions and inspiring a lot of people from the LGBT+ community.
And Ianne hopes other kids can experience the same love from their parents.
“I would not have achieved being a magna cum laude and class valedictorian in 2018 and being a Bar passer this year without the acceptance, love, and support of my parents. To all parents, love your kids regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation. They can achieve as high or even higher than what I have gained,” she expressed.
When the high court released the list of passers, Ianne’s father P/Chief Master Sergeant Paul Gamboa, who happened to be assigned to ensure safety within the Supreme Court’s premises as part of the security team that day, was able to witness his child’s success as one of the 3,812 passers out of 10,387 who braved the 2023 Bar.
Hearing that the passing rate for this year was only 36.77 percent, Ianne very felt nervous at that time.
“It was surreal. I was really nervous because the passing rate is only 36.77% of the 2023 Bar. I thought I would not be able to find my name on the list of successful examinees,” she recalled.
Her goal, on the other hand, was even higher than passing the examinations.
“There is a saying in law school that we should shoot for the stars, at least if we failed, we will land on the moon. While I am grateful to pass the 2023 Bar, my initial goal was to become the first openly transwoman Bar topnotcher. I may have fallen short in achieving this dream, but this could possibly inspire and challenge the younger generation of transwomen that they can dream the highest dream and achieve it with determination,” she said.
Ianne then encouraged other members of the LGBT+ community to dream big and work hard, telling them that they are capable of fulfilling their hearts’ desires.
“I want them to dream the impossible dream. No dreams are too high. You can achieve whatever goal you have as long as you put in your dedication, discipline, and hard work,” she noted.
The 2023 Bar passer currently works as a Legal Secretary at the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG).
“I am looking forward to engaging my practice with the government. I will apply to the OSG as an Associate Solicitor or in the Judiciary,” she revealed.
For now, Ianne would like to thank everyone who helped her become a lawyer, “I will not accomplish being a Bar passer without the help and support of my family and friends. Thank you also to my OSG family, Tuazon Division, for believing in me. My heart will forever be grateful.”
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