Malimban: The topnotch lawyer is also a first-rate CPA

The 2006 bar topnotcher does not only have a sharp legal mind. He too has superb numerical ability. Noel Neil Maliban told QTV’s Balitanghali on Wednesday that this was not the first time that he topped an exam. In 2000, he ranked 14th place when he took the boards examinations for certified public accountants. Despite his scholastic achievements, Malimban swears he is no geek. He said good exam reviewers and Ronda Doctor, his girlfriend of eight years, did so much for his success. “Pinili ko lang yung mga review materials kung saan kumportable ako. Hindi ko sinubukang basahin lahat kasi imposibleng basahin lahat e. So mag-stick to one lang and master it. (I chose review materials I am comfortable with. I did not try reading all reviewers, it was impossible to do so. So I just sticked to one and mastered it)," he said. Malimban is also very happy for proving that “schools here in Baguio City, not only schools there in Manila" can make topnotch lawyers. Malimban who got a grade of 87.6 percent, is the second law graduate of UC who ranked first in the bar exams. The first was Janet Abuel who got a 91.80 percent grade in 1998. Malimban plans to join a law firm in Manila and specialize in corporate law since this will complement his expertise in accounting. “Mag-eestablish ako ng practice dito (sa Baguio) after ng Manila stint ko," he said. His family friends and supporters will conduct a parade and motorcade at 4 p.m. in Baguio to celebrate his victory. - GMANews.TV