By Emmanuel T. Erediano
emmanuel@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
GOVERNOR David M. Apatang on Monday approved House Local Bill 24-29, renaming Smiling Cove Marina in honor of the late former Lt. Gov. Diego Tenorio Benavente.
Co-authored by Reps. Vincent R. Aldan, Danny I. Aquino Jr., Blas Jonathan “BJ” Attao, Angelo A. Camacho, Thomas John Manglona, John Paul Sablan, and Ralph N. Yumul, H.L.B. 24-29 is now Public Law 24-17.
Now called the Diego T. Benavente Smiling Cove Marina, the docking facility, located in the northern part of American Memorial Park, had been an important part of Benavente’s public and private life — not only as a longtime legislator who left behind a legacy of legislative achievements, but also as an avid fisherman with a deep connection to local maritime traditions and a commitment to preserving them for future generations.
“Owing to Diego Tenorio Benavente’s long-standing legacy as a distinguished public servant and devoted fisherman, it is only fitting that Smiling Cove Marina bears his name. This designation will serve as a lasting tribute to his leadership, his contributions to the Commonwealth, and the example he has set for future generations. By renaming Smiling Cove Marina as the Diego T. Benavente Smiling Cove Marina, the [Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative] Delegation affirms its recognition of a lifetime dedicated to service, community, and the enduring values that bind the Commonwealth together,” the new local law states.
Benavente, 66, passed away on Nov. 20, 2025 from acute leukemia.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
