The panel is ready to review these nominees, but it does not necessarily mean it is willing to confirm them, according to the committee chairman, Sen. Frank Q. Cruz.
Cruz, R-Tinian, in an interview yesterday reiterated that they will not confirm any of the governor’s appointees unless the administration considers the recommendations of Tinian and Rota.
The administration, he added, should give the two islands the courtesy to choose their representatives on government boards and commissions.
The administration has said that only the governor has the authority to appoint the members of these boards and commissions.
“What is the use of someone else choosing somebody for Tinian who cannot work with its leaders?” Cruz asked.
Variety learned that Tinian Mayor Ramon Dela Cruz has recommended the nominations of former Mayor James M. Mendiola to the Marianas Visitors Authority and former Commonwealth Ports Authority Resident Director Ignacio Perez to CPA.
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial reappointed Jerry Tan to MVA; Jesus I. Sablan to the Commonwealth Election Commission; and Jerry P. Crisostimo to the Retirement Fund board of trustees.
Fitial appointed Eric Plinske to the Civil Service Commission and Nacrina Barcinas to the Fund board.
After Cruz stated that his committee would not confirm any of these nominees, Fitial withdrew their names on Oct. 13. They had to be confirmed within a 90-day period. Otherwise, they could no longer be re-nominated.
Press Secretary Angel S. Demapan said it is likely that the governor will submit the list of the same nominees to the Senate committee.
“Those people are eligible and the governor believes they would bring a great amount of contribution to the boards and commissions,” he added.
Cruz said the governor should also nominate those recommended by the Tinian mayor.
“We will then schedule public hearings for each nominee and allow the people to participate in the decision-making process,” he said, adding that it is important to work cooperatively with the present leaders and people of all the senatorial districts because “that’s how we can move forward with issues affecting them.”
Senate President Paul A. Manglona, Ind.-Rota, said boards and commissions require representation from Rota and Tinian.
Tinian and Rota, he added, haven’t been represented on the MVA board for the past years.
Vacant slots on the boards for Saipan get filled but those for Rota and Tinian are not — why? he asked.
That’s the concern that the committee has been bringing up with the administration, Manglona added.
During a meeting last week, Manglona said Lt. Gov. Eloy S. Inos “assured that the Senate and administration are going to be working together on this issue. We will work in good faith.”
