Dr. Bonifacio N. Mercado Jr., director of the University of San Carlos Community Extension Services (CES) was elected as the President of the Federation of Career Guidance Advocates Network of the Philippines (FCGANP), Inc., on October 17, 2024. 

The National Federation Officers took an oath of office before Director Patrick P. Patriwirawan, Jr., CESO III, Bureau of Local Employment, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). 

As the newly elected president, Dr. Mercado will be at the forefront of ensuring “the continuity and effectiveness of career guidance and development initiatives across the country.” 

In addition, the new set of officers will also be the lead focal persons for the implementation of the Career Development Support (CDS) initiatives among schools, colleges, and universities. This is in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Offices, Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs), Human Resource Practitioners, the Commission on Higher on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and other relevant stakeholders. 

According to the DOLE, FCGANP “plays a vital role in helping individuals navigate the job market, ensuring they can secure suitable employment and identify the right training opportunities that align with their career aspirations.” 

Dr. Mercado, together with the other officers from different schools, colleges, and universities in the Philippines, will serve a three-year term.