Many careers follow a linear path—but for Associate Professor Tino Mercado, it was a relentless pursuit of excellence, community service, and cultural pride that carried him from the lecture halls of UP Manila to the top leadership of one of Australasia’s most prestigious dental organizations. At 52, the Filipino-born academic and dental specialist is making history as the first Filipino President of the Australia and New Zealand Academy of Periodontists (ANZAP)—a milestone nearly three decades in the making.
Chasing a dream bigger than borders
Tino Mercado’s passion for dentistry began early, sparked by a fascination with the surgical side of the profession. Graduating as the top student of his class at the University of the Philippines-Manila in 1995, he later ranked among the highest scorers in the Philippine Dental Board Examination. But it wasn’t long before he realized that pursuing advanced training in periodontics and implantology would require looking beyond his home country.
“At that time, the Philippines did not offer a Master’s Degree in Periodontics and Implantology,” he explained to TGFM. “I made the significant decision to relocate to Australia to enhance my expertise.”
That leap led him to the University of Queensland, where he found not only a rigorous academic environment but also mentorship under Dr. Vergel De Dios, an accomplished Filipino-Australian who helped him settle into his new life abroad. Australia eventually became his second home, and the foundation of a groundbreaking career.
Now, as the elected ANZAP President for the 2024–2026 term, Mercado represents more than just academic excellence. He’s carrying the torch for diversity and inclusion in a field long dominated by other nationalities. “I am immensely proud to be the first Filipino-born President of this esteemed organization,” he said. “During my tenure, I’m committed to organizing well-balanced and inclusive scientific meetings and symposiums for all members.”
He continues to work closely with postgraduate students and top institutions across the region to raise the standards of periodontal education, all while helping pave the way for more Filipino specialists in Australia and New Zealand.
Building bridges through education and advocacy
Mercado’s influence extends far beyond the clinic and classroom. As Associate Professor at the University of Otago, the University of Queensland, and the University of Sydney, he brings deep clinical expertise and research knowledge to students across Oceania. But his academic journey has not been without challenges.
Balancing teaching, research, and clinical work while financially supporting his extended family in the Philippines required discipline and sacrifice. “I knew full-time PhD study wasn’t possible,” he shared. “So, I chose the path of part-time study while continuing to work in my private clinic in Sydney.”
That perseverance paid off. A decade later, he completed his PhD in Periodontics, made possible in part by receiving the National Health and Medical Research Council Scholarship. “It wasn’t easy,” he recalled. “But I’m deeply grateful to Prof. Saso Ivanovski, my supervisor, who believed in me.”
With a doctorate and years of experience now under his belt, Mercado says he feels more equipped than ever to train the next generation of dental professionals in both clinical and research excellence.
Yet, one of his proudest achievements is not academic at all. It’s the creation of the Filipino Australian Dental Association (FADA), a grassroots initiative that has quickly become a vital support network for Filipino dentists trying to establish themselves in Australia.
“The idea started almost four years ago,” he said. “Many Filipino dentists arrive in Australia and start their careers as dental assistants. Our goal was to help them regain their credentials and pass the Australian licensing exam.”
FADA’s impact has grown immensely. The group now hosts an annual Symposium and Continuing Education Event in celebration of Philippine Independence Day, where Filipino professionals take the spotlight as speakers and lecturers. Beyond Australia, the group has extended its reach to the Philippines, building daycare centers, handwashing stations, and donating resources to underserved communities—all powered by the funds raised during their events.
“It’s incredible to witness our vision transform into reality,” Mercado said. “FADA is becoming a formidable force in the dental landscape.”
Rooted in values, driven by resilience
Mercado credits his Filipino upbringing for the empathy and collaborative spirit that define his leadership style.
“Filipino values like Kapwa-tao and Pakikisama taught me to honor diversity and build harmonious relationships,” he explained. “And Mano po—our way of showing respect to elders—instilled in me a deep admiration for pioneers in our profession.”
These values helped him navigate the challenges of adapting to life overseas, where navigating foreign systems and standing out in a competitive industry could often feel isolating.
“In big cities in Australia filled with brilliant English speakers, it’s easy to feel small,” he admitted. “But we Filipinos are resilient. We don’t just dream for ourselves—we dream for our families, our communities. That’s what pushes us forward.”
He also acknowledges the support he has received from the Australian community along the way. “Australians have a wonderful spirit of friendship and support. Many of them have extended a helping hand, which makes a huge difference.”
As he reflects on his journey, Mercado is quick to offer words of encouragement to aspiring Filipino professionals abroad.
“Always dream big—and dream happily,” he said. “Integrity, honesty, pride, and love—these are the values that will guide you. And remember, the ‘crab mentality’ is not who we are as Filipinos. We can choose to rise together.”
