“The academic achievement you celebrate today, born of hard work and dedication, is the foundation for your future and that of our nation,” the president said. “Soon you will stand at the helm of our country as you steer its course; I hope you are guided by the values and vision that brought you this important moment.”
Obama reminded Sablan that in America “you are the author of your destiny…. You can make unique contributions that impact the lives of those around you, and your service to your community, our country, and the world can create a brighter tomorrow for us all.”
The president added, “Our nation needs your daring, your energy, and your imagination in the days ahead. Please accept my best wishes as you write the next proud chapter of the American story.”
Sablan is the son of Ronald P. Lamkin and Dr. Celia B. Lamkin of Saipan.
“He is a passionate, kind, loving, thoughtful, courteous, respectful and caring child. He likes to help other people and the community,” his mother said.
As young as eight years old, Sablan was already participating in the activities and awareness program for people with disabilities in the CNMI. He helped in fundraising activities and assisted students with disabilities in their recreational activities.
“At the age of 12, John learned how to get my blood pressure, blood sugar level, heart rate, give my medicines after I had a heart attack which he has been doing since then. I can always depend on him because whenever I don’t feel good, he knows what medicines he would give me depending on my symptoms,” Lamkin said.
During the awards ceremony prior to the graduation of SSHS seniors last week, he was given the Community Service Learning Award in recognition of his commitment and unwavering support for the welfare of the community and for his exemplary performances as both a student and role model to the schools service learning program.
“Your volunteerism was an example for all to follow and we respect and commend you for the excellence you demonstrated,” the award citation stated.
In addition, Sablan received 1st place in the subject area of health occupations as well as the President’s Education Award in recognition of his outstanding academic excellence.
On June 16, 2011, he received a certificate of completion in recognition of his dedication and commitment to academic achievement and success in the Nursing Assistantship Program of SSHS. He also received the Pillars of Nursing Award for his excellent performance in communications. He was the president of the nursing program and was a National Honor Society member.
Sablan was also a volunteer for numerous medical missions in the Philippines where he assisted hundreds of impoverished people in the depressed areas outside Metro Manila. He is a volunteer for the American Red Cross. As a member of the United Nations Association of the United States of America and the U.N. Foundation, he is actively involved on such issues as global warming, gender equality, health and human rights.
His concerns for the wildlife and the environment makes him an active young member of the World Wildlife Fund, The Nature Conservancy and Greenpeace International.
Moreover, he is a donor to international organizations such as Feed the Poor, Feed the Children, American Diabetes Association and other charitable organizations.
According to his mother, Sablan’s donations come from money he saves as incentives for doing household chores: cooking, cleaning, washing clothes and washing dishes.
Last year, he became part of the Philippine history when he joined the inauguration of President Benigno S. Aquino III, together with his family and members of the U.S. Pinoys for Good Governance.
While in Manila, Sablan attended a convention and participated in the discussion of issues pertaining to the betterment of all Filipinos in the world and the Philippines.
