By Emmanuel T. Erediano
emmanuel@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
GOVERNOR David M. Apatang nominated former Department of Commerce Secretary Mark O. Rabauliman and Northern Marianas Protection and Advocacy Systems, Inc. program manager Elsie Tilipao-Rebuenog to the Commonwealth Election Commission.
If confirmed by the Senate, Rabauliman will represent Saipan, while Tilipao-Rebuenog will represent the Carolinian community on the election board.
In his nomination letters, the governor told Rabauliman he will serve the remainder of the term vacated by Antonio LG Cabrera, whose term expired on July 21, 2025. Tilipao-Rebuenog will fill a long-vacant seat, with her term set to expire on July 21, 2029.
The governor said he and Lt. Gov. Dennis James Mendiola are confident that Rabauliman and Tilipao-Rebuenog will devote their time and efforts to the best interests of the people. “Their willingness to serve on this critical board is most appreciated,” he added.
In his letters to Senate President Karl King-Nabors, the governor emphasized that both nominees are qualified and will be assets to the commission. “We respectfully request favorable action on this nomination,” he said.
The current members of the CEC are Chairwoman Susan R. Sablan, Vice Chairman Jose P. Kiyoshi, board members Remedio R. Sablan, Florence Sablan, John Diego Attao, Kurt John O. Maratita, and Esther Yatar.
