Atty. Leonito Bacalando Jr., a USC College of Law graduate, has been appointed as the first-ever Filipino to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Justice of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). 

Prior to his appointment as Secretary and Attorney General, he served as Chief of Law and Assistant Attorney General from 2008 to 2023 and then as Acting Secretary of Justice of Micronesia until his confirmation by the FSM Congress. In these roles, he has been at the forefront of addressing complex legal issues related to the enforcement of international maritime agreements, maritime boundaries, and oceanic resource management.

Atty. Bacalando traces his roots and expresses his gratitude to the University of San Carlos for being part of his journey. “Throughout the years, USC has consistently upheld its reputation for excellence. I stand as a living testament to the exceptional education and Christian values that this institution instills in its students. For this, I am eternally grateful.” 

His tenure at the Department of Justice abroad constantly challenges him to be critical, especially in balancing national priorities and international obligations. Fortunately, USC has equipped him with essential skills early on. “I stepped onto the premises of the University of San Carlos at the age of 15. I studied Political Science and then later, Law. I discovered not only the importance of critical thinking but also the profound art of listening—skills that would shape my journey ahead,” he shared. 

As the new Secretary of the Department of Justice, Atty. Bacalando will be at the forefront of driving progress and reinforcing Micronesia’s position on the global stage. He takes pride in being a Carolinian lawyer committed to upholding the rule of law in a foreign jurisdiction. 

“In my current role as Secretary of Justice of Micronesia, I take immense pride in being a Carolinian dedicated to the administration of justice and upholding the rule of law. My personal commitment is to serve not only as a lawyer but also as a bridge between the law and the people it is meant to serve.”

Atty. Bacalando graduated from the USC College of Law in 2001. His wife, Rhodora Bacalando, also a Carolinian, was his classmate in Political Science.