Nico Antonio: On Passing the Bar, Fatherhood, and Why It’s Never Too Late to Chase Your Dreams

Actor and dad Nico Antonio’s journey to becoming a lawyer may have taken years and now, he’s taking his oath soon

Actor, producer, and father Nico Antonio recently added a new title to his résumé: lawyer. But while passing the Bar Exams is a milestone worth celebrating, Nico remains focused on what lies ahead.

“Sometimes I still can’t believe I passed, especially when people I don’t know congratulate me and call me ‘Attorney,’” Nico shares with Modern Parenting. “But most of the time, I don’t dwell on it.”

Growing Up in a Family of Lawyers

For Nico, the idea of becoming a lawyer was always present. His mother, film producer Joji Alonso, is a practicing lawyer, and both of his siblings are in the legal profession. Still, his own journey took time.

With acting projects, leadership roles, and raising a family, Nico admits it wasn’t easy to commit to the demanding Bar review. The turning point came with the encouragement of his wife, Angel, and his mother—along with two people who he said inspired him.

“My former professor, Atty. Zarah Villanueva-Castro encouraged me year after year,” he says. “She never gave up on reminding me that I could do it.”

He was also inspired by a 62-year-old woman who passed the 2023 Bar Exams on her first try. “Her story truly pushed me to take the plunge.”

Studying for the Bar While Being Dad

Reviewing for the Bar meant long days of reading and mental exhaustion, but Nico was intentional about making time for his wife, Angel, and their kids.

“I made it a point to spend time with my family,” he says. “My wife and our two kids kept me motivated, especially during moments when I didn’t feel like studying anymore.”

They were his reason for pushing through. “I wanted to show my kids that you can be good at anything as long as you give it your all.”

His siblings were also part of his support system—offering last-minute tips, reminders to trust the process, and encouragement when it mattered most.

When Reel Life Meets Real Life

Before becoming a lawyer in real life, Nico played one on screen. In Unmarry, he portrayed Atty. Willie—a role that, in hindsight, felt timely.

“The film taught me the importance of protecting one’s peace and valuing family,” he reflects. “You only live once, so it’s important to make the most of life and cherish the people who truly matter.”

What Changes—and What Stays the Same

As Nico prepares to take his oath as a lawyer, he’s clear that his family life will remain his anchor.

“I’ve always wanted to help those who have less in life,” he says. “But in terms of my family, nothing changes. They will always come first.”

His wife, he adds, has been fully supportive of every path he’s chosen.

Between acting projects, his role as CEO of Quantum Films, and fatherhood, Nico’s calendar is full. He’s currently working on an independent film, preparing for the TV debut of The Kingdom, and starring in Sisa, directed by Jun Robles Lana, which marks the return of Hilda Koronel this March.

Nico Antonio’s Advice for Aspiring Lawyers

For the young professionals preparing for the Bar Exams and those who will take another chance, Nico shares three key reminders:

• Find your resolve –“You have to truly decide that you’re taking the Bar.”
• Build a strong support system – “I asked for my wife’s and my mom’s approval before committing.”
• Prepare for the grind –“You’ll be reading from the moment you wake up until you fall asleep. Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and how you construct your answers.”

Nico Antonio’s Bar journey may have taken time, but his story proves that dreams don’t expire—and that with the right support, the right timing will come.

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