In a significant milestone for the Filipino community, Leonito Bacalando Jr., a proud Filipino from Biliran, Leyte, has been appointed as the first Filipino Justice Secretary of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). His appointment, confirmed by FSM’s Twenty-Third Congress, not only highlights his personal achievements but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for Filipinos worldwide.

Bacalando’s journey began in the Philippines, where he completed his law studies at the University of San Carlos in Cebu. Like many Filipinos with dreams of making a difference, he worked tirelessly to hone his legal skills, eventually practicing at the prestigious ACRA Law Office. But life had even greater plans for him—plans that took him beyond the borders of his homeland and into the halls of FSM’s justice system.

In 2002, Bacalando moved to Micronesia, where he began his career with the FSM Attorney General’s Office. His competence, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law propelled him to higher ranks, eventually serving as Chief of Law and Assistant Attorney General. Bacalando's success did not come overnight. It was the result of years of hard work, resilience, and a deep passion for public service. In 2005, he passed the FSM bar exam, becoming one of the few who could practice law in both Micronesia and the Philippines.

However, perhaps the most significant moment of his career came in 2022, when President Wesley Simina personally selected him as Justice Secretary. In a statement, Bacalando expressed pride not only in his new role but also in his Filipino heritage.

“I feel very good about it, not because this is the first time. I feel good about it because this sends a very good message to the world in terms of what Filipinos can do,” Bacalando said. “I’m proud of my family, proud of the community that I represent in the Philippines, and the community where I now belong as my second home.”

Bacalando’s humble yet powerful words echo the dreams of many Filipinos who seek to make a difference in the world. His story is a testament to the resilience and talent Filipinos possess, capable of thriving and excelling on the global stage. His rise to Justice Secretary proves that boundaries and nationality do not limit one’s ability to contribute to the greater good.

President Simina commended Bacalando’s integrity and leadership, recognizing the vital role he has played in shaping FSM’s justice system.

Beyond his legal accomplishments, Bacalando’s story speaks to a broader truth about the Filipino spirit. Despite challenges and the unknowns of life abroad, Filipinos like him continue to rise to positions of influence, driven by their values of hard work, compassion, and dedication to justice. Bacalando’s work in promoting fairness, justice, and humanity serves as a reminder that every Filipino, wherever they may be, carries within them the potential to impact lives, shape communities, and inspire future generations.

His appointment has been met with celebration in both Micronesia and the Philippines, a proud moment for Filipinos who see Bacalando as a symbol of what is possible when talent, perseverance, and opportunity meet. In a world that often feels divided, Bacalando’s success stands as a testament to the power of diversity and inclusivity in leadership.

As Bacalando continues his work in FSM, his story will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration for young Filipinos, especially aspiring lawyers and public servants. His message is clear: dream big, work hard, and never lose sight of your values. The world is full of opportunities, and Filipinos are more than capable of seizing them.

"I’m part of that process, and I’m proud to be part of that good community process," Bacalando shared. "So hopefully, people will know and be inspired that Filipinos can do these things too, and they can even do much more than what I have done so far."

Indeed, Bacalando’s journey is not just his own—it is a collective victory for the Filipino people, a shining example of what it means to rise to the occasion and lead with integrity. For Filipinos around the world, his story is a reminder that greatness can be achieved, no matter where life’s path takes you.

Leonito Bacalando Jr. is not just a lawyer. He is a trailblazer, a Filipino leader in the global arena, and an inspiration for generations to come.