By Emmanuel T. Erediano
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
GOVERNOR David M. Apatang on Monday announced his appointment of three jurists: Superior Court Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja as Supreme Court associate justice; Associate Judge Joseph James N. Camacho as presiding judge; and former Attorney General Joey Patrick San Nicolas as associate judge.
The appointments came a week after the resignation of Associate Justice Perry Inos. “It was a historic event to appoint three jurists in a single day,” Naraja said.
In a press conference at his office on Capital Hill, the governor said he submitted his nomination letters to Senate President Kar King-Nabors on Friday. “Hopefully, the Senate will begin reviewing the appointments and start the confirmation process,” he said. He thanked Naraja, Camacho, and San Nicolas for accepting the nominations.
The governor also noted that San Nicolas, a former mayor of Tinian, will be the first judge from the island. “It will be an honor to have the first judge from Tinian. I ask the Senate to expedite his confirmation so the court system will not experience any gaps. We want other justices and judges to focus on their work, not administrative delays,” he said.
Lt. Gov. Dennis James Mendiola called the announcement “an important moment for the Judiciary and for the people we serve.” He congratulated Naraja, noting that his appointment to the Supreme Court “reflects not only his legal acumen but the trust placed in his integrity, fairness, and dedication to the rule of law.”
Mendiola also praised Camacho, saying, “His guidance, expertise, and wise decision-making will enhance the administration of justice.” He welcomed San Nicolas, noting that his nomination “embodies a unified ‘One Marianas’ perspective, with an associate judge chosen from the beautiful island of Tinian.”
“Altogether, these appointments reinforce the strength and independence of the CNMI judicial branch,” Mendiola added. “On behalf of the people, the governor and I thank each of the nominees for answering the call to serve.”
Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexandro Castro also thanked the governor for the appointments, highlighting their importance in maintaining the rule of law in the Commonwealth. “Our people on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota will continue to have access to the judicial system,” he said. Castro expressed respect for the nominations and welcomed Naraja, Camacho, and San Nicolas to their new roles.
Naraja thanked the governor for his trust and confidence. His appointment as associate justice marks an eight-year term and makes him the third-longest serving CNMI jurist, adding to his 24 years on the Superior Court. “I will do my very best for the betterment of our community. The people deserve no less,” he said, thanking Castro for his support and congratulating his fellow appointees.
Camacho thanked the governor and lieutenant governor for their confidence. As a strong advocate of efficiency, he said he hopes to implement technology solutions to improve court operations. “For residents on Tinian and Rota, cases are often delayed because judges travel to the islands once a month. With technology, judges can appear via video conference,” he said. He also noted that timely appointment of the presiding judge is critical for functions such as signing child support payments, which can significantly impact single parents.
San Nicolas expressed gratitude on behalf of his wife Connie and his family. “I am deeply honored and grateful to Governor Apatang and Lt. Gov. Mendiola for the confidence they have placed in me,” he said. He emphasized his respect for the judiciary and its role in upholding the rule of law and public trust.
San Nicolas congratulated Naraja and Camacho and said he looks forward to serving alongside them to strengthen the integrity and professionalism of CNMI courts. He also recognized the contributions of Associate Justice Inos, Castro, and Manglona, noting that their work “has shaped our judiciary and left a lasting legacy.”
“I approach this nomination with humility and full respect for the constitutional confirmation process,” San Nicolas said. “The Senate’s role in that process is an important safeguard of judicial independence, and I look forward to appearing before them in due course.”
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.
