Cardel was a member of the back-to-back UAAP champion De La Salle in 1989–1990.

Together with Green Archer teammate Jun Limpot, they played for Magnolia Ice Cream in the Philippine Basketball League and winning numerous championships.

Lucia Realtors in the next two seasons before playing for Formula Shell in his final PBA year in 1997.

Cardel helped the Slashers to three Southern Conference titles (1998, 2000 and 2001) but was unable to lead them to the overall MBA championship during his stay.

In 2002 he signed up with the Olongapo Volunteers but was unable to finish the season due to the league shutdown.