Before Associate Professor Dr. Tino Mercado became one of the most respected voices in dentistry across Australia and New Zealand, he was a young man in the Philippines being cared for by an elderly lady named Tita Loleng. She looked after him during his high school and university years and became like a second mother. Later in life, she developed mouth and nose cancer—likely from years of chewing betel nut—a devastating diagnosis that left a lasting mark on Mercado.
“I witnessed her enduring struggle with the disease,” Dr. Tino shared with TGFM. “It revealed significant deficiencies in our public health system when it came to managing oral cancer patients.”
That early pain became his purpose. Today, Dr. Tino is not only the incoming President of the Australia and New Zealand Academy of Periodontists (ANZAP), but also a highly regarded clinician, educator, and researcher whose work is reshaping the way oral health is approached globally.
A journey sparked by loss, powered by purpose
Dr. Tino’s path to dentistry began at the University of the Philippines, where his desire to understand cancer—and prevent others from suffering the same fate as his nanny—drove him to the top of his class. After graduating in 1995, he placed among the highest in the national dental board exams. But instead of staying where he was already thriving, he made a bold decision: to leave for Australia in pursuit of a deeper specialization in oral surgery and periodontics.
What led him there was another Filipino: Dr. Nanette Vergel De Dios, his undergraduate professor and mentor. “She informed me that the University of Queensland is renowned for offering one of the most prestigious Master’s programs globally,” Dr. Tino said. With her guidance, he applied and was accepted—a turning point in what would become a decades-long career abroad.
His academic trajectory didn’t stop with a Master’s degree. Dr. Tino also completed a PhD, all while working in private practice and mentoring future dentists across the region. His research now focuses on the link between gum disease, systemic inflammation, and chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes.
“I use a simple analogy with patients,” he explained. “I describe gum disease as being like an ulcer the size of your palm—an infected wound covered with bacteria. It helps them visualize the damage and understand why oral health is essential for their overall well-being.”
Mentoring with impact
Dr. Tino has taught in several major universities including the University of Sydney, University of Otago, and University of Queensland. His teaching philosophy is rooted in gratitude and reflection.
“I have become the mentor I once admired,” he said. “Being part of someone’s dream and seeing it come true—that’s a gift.”
The commitment to education also extends to his home country. As the founder of the Filipino Australian Dental Association (FADA), he has helped train Filipino dental professionals seeking to requalify in Australia. He also spearheads outreach missions to underserved communities in the Philippines, combining dental treatment with continuing education and infrastructure support.
FADA has helped build day-care centers, install hand-washing facilities, and establish a headquarters for a local dental community in the Philippines. “It’s incredible to witness our vision transform into reality,” he said in a previous interview.
Leading with vision and values
Now at the helm of ANZAP, Dr. Tino is focused on cultivating more than just clinical expertise. “My core mission is to ensure we continue to nurture skilled, ethical, and compassionate professionals,” he said. He wants the region’s periodontal education to stand alongside the best in the world—while still strengthening ties with organizations like FADA that focus on community and cultural connection.
His leadership style is deeply rooted in Filipino values. “Kapwa-tao and pakikisama taught me to respect individuality and build harmonious relationships,” he shared. “And the concept of mano po—respecting elders—taught me to honor those who paved the way.”
It’s this blend of academic excellence, humility, and cultural grounding that has made Dr. Tino not just a standout professional, but a beacon for many Filipino healthcare workers abroad.
The accolades have followed. Among the many recognitions he’s received, one stands out in particular: the World Osteology Clinical Research Award, which he says encapsulates nearly a decade of effort. “It represents commitment and perseverance,” he said. “The clinical impact of the research is meaningful, and that makes it even more rewarding.”
Advice for those walking a similar path
Dr. Tino knows the journey of going abroad, requalifying, and building a career from scratch can be daunting—especially for young Filipinos aspiring to make a global impact. His advice is simple but profound.
“First, understand who you are and what you want to achieve. The ‘how’ will come later,” he said. “Work hard and stay focused on your goals. And don’t lose sight of your purpose—whether it’s to support your family, give back to your community, or find fulfillment in your work.”
