I worked in the construction industry as a carpenter (finishing).
I have read the letter of Mr. Vince Cabrera who said that when we came here as contract workers Saipan was fine and when we leave Saipan will still be fine. I don’t think that’s true. In Oct. 1987, when I first arrived, Saipan was not fine. The roads were dusty and Middle Road looked like a jungle. The island was not developed. What if after Nov. 27 all guest workers leave the island? What will happen to Saipan? But it’s impossible to happen right, all guest workers leaving?
Sirs, Ma’am, I am asking for your help. Is there a possibility that you can extend the Nov. 27 deadline and our umbrella permits? This is for the sake of many unemployed persons, especially those who have U.S. citizen children, trying to find jobs.
I got married here in 1993 and God gave us two children. One is 17 years old while the other is 8. Like other parents, we want our children to finish their education in good schools. My daughter is very smart and talented. She was the valedictorian in elementary school (Garapan) and junior high school (Hopwood). She was among the CNMI students who represented the commonwealth in the National Forensic League competitions in Texas this year. Our children are now getting worried. They want to know what will happen to their education if we have to leave the island. I told them, “Just continue praying. God always listens.”
I would also like to take this opportunity to beg my last employer to please pay me my back wages ($1,000). I am also still waiting for my 2009 and 2010 stimulus checks. Rev & Tax/Treasury told us many times to check our mail box “after two weeks,” but it’s been two years already. We’re hoping to get this money so we can buy plane tickets if I still can’t find a new employer before Nov. 27.
Is there any employer out there willing to help and hire an experienced and skilled worker?
God Bless the CNMI and its people.
RUBEN G. SAHAGUN
Puerto Rico, Saipan
