First Filipino appointed as Justice secretary in Micronesia confirmed by Congress

NEW YORK - The Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia has confirmed its first Filipino to be appointed as Justice Secretary.

Through Congressional Resolution No. 23-214, the Twenty-Third Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia confirmed the appointment of Filipino Leonito Bacalando Jr.

"Be it resolved by the Twenty-Third Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia, Fifth Regular Session, 2024, that Congress hereby confirms the nomination of Mr. Leonito M. Bacalando Jr., Esq. to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Justice of the Federated States of Micronesia."

The resolution was signed on September 25, 2024.

Bacalando was personally selected by President Wesly Simina last year.

Speaking to GMA Integrated News, Bacalando expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve his adopted homeland and emphasized the importance of his role in promoting justice, fairness, and humanity.

He also highlighted the significance of his Filipino heritage.

"I feel very good about it, not because this is the first time, no. I think I feel good about it because this sends a very good message to the world in terms of what Filipinos can do. I'm proud of my family, I’m proud of the community that I represent in the Philippines, and proud of the community where I belong now as my second home,” said Bacalando.

Hailing from Biliran, Leyte, Bacalando completed his law studies at the University of San Carlos, Cebu. His illustrious career path began in 2002 when he embarked on his professional journey in Micronesia by joining the Attorney General’s Office. Since then, he has consistently demonstrated a high level of professionalism and competence, eventually rising to the positions of Chief of Law and Assistant Attorney General.