I WISH to share reflections on the critical juncture facing our island and our commonwealth. As one of the commonwealth’s founding fathers, and as a former lt. governor, a legislator for many years, and a former mayor, I have participated in many, if not all, of the major developments that we have experienced over the past thirty some years since the honorable Gerald R. Ford signed the Covenant.
Year 2007 brings yet another major development for our islands. Whether that development comes strictly at the hands of the federal government or fashioned to meet the needs of our community depends on our right choices. While many may believe it is too late to affect the federalization of minimum wage and immigration control, I believe that it is never too late to show our political maturity and elect responsible representatives that will clearly and effectively voice our concerns and needs to our federal government.
The past few years have not been kind to our beautiful island. We are now experiencing economic hardship. The future is indeed uncertain. What is not uncertain is that we, the people of Rota, must look to our own initiative to provide the answers to what will become of our community. We need to act as a community and not be factionalized, fighting among ourselves. We must exercise our vote for our children’s future in a manner that gives us the best chance at success. We must support a team that would bring about our economic prosperity.
That is why I urge all of you to support proven leaders. Leaders who know how to attract investors. Leaders who know how to insure Rota gets its fair share when the federal money and the general fund are divided among our legislative districts. Leaders who know how to deal harmoniously with our federal government. Leaders who know how to work as a team with our mayor and our municipal council, the present administration and our Legislature. We do not have the time to groom new leadership, to wait patiently for them to mature into our next generation of leaders. Now is the time to elect leaders with vast experience and wisdom as well as an abundance of energy.
Fortunately, Rota has two such leaders seeking elected offices in the fall election. I strongly believe Victor B. Hocog and Paul A. Manglona is the right team now for Rota. They are teaming up for progress and prosperity. Two esteemed legislators with many years of experience in the legislature.
Victor B. Hocog brought the only resort operation to Rota. Because of his efforts, we enjoy the benefit of a five star golf resort that any community would be proud. Sinapalo Elementary School was constructed by Rota Resort as its public contribution because Victor believed in the value of education. He has sat on the Commonwealth Ports Authority board of directors as its chairman and tirelessly worked to make sure Rota’s ports are able to welcome commerce and tourists. He understands that through investors and good government oversight, Rota will claim its rightful place in the western Pacific while growing its eco-tourism industry. As a legislator, Victor knew how to work collaboratively, across party lines and political differences, to accomplish what was good for Rota and the commonwealth. His proven leadership skill and “jack hammer” attitude and commitment is what we need in the Legislature.
Senator Paul has been the consistent voice of Rota and the CNMI for the past 20 years. He has proven his ability to lead as well as to partner for the good of our island. Because of his steadfast representation, Rota has secured CIP funds for many projects including renovation and expansion of the Rota Health Center, water and power infrastructure improvements, village road construction, and the Manamko’ center. Regardless of what obstacles are placed before him, he never fails to honor his commitment to Rota and our people. His voice of wisdom has never been silenced when it comes to what he believes is in Rota’s best interests. It is this kind of commitment and selflessness that Rota needs to end our years of dependency and assume our control of our own destiny. I believe Senator Paul is still the best for Rota and its people.
I again emphasize that our people have suffered long enough. Political division has not eased that suffering but has contributed to its continuation. Now is the time for political unity — political parties, the leaders and members — must leave behind petty differences that prevent us from moving forward into prosperity. We do not have the luxury of such political distraction any longer. Join me in ending such disastrous division and forming a unified support for Senator Paul and former Congressman Victor as our island’s choice for our children’s future. They are teaming up for Rota and the CNMI’s prosperity for all to enjoy a brighter future.

BENJAMIN T. MANGLONA
Former Mayor of Rota