By Emmanuel T. Erediano
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
NORTHERN Islands Mayor Valentino N. Taisacan Jr. submitted a $696,786 budget request to the administration and the Legislature.
In the revised fiscal year 2026 budget, the Northern Islands Mayor’s Office received $489,731.
In his budget submission to Gov. David M. Apatang, Speaker Edmund S. Villagomez, and Senate President Karl King-Nabors, Taisacan said the amount he is requesting will support personnel and operations required to effectively carry out his office’s mandated programs and services for the Northern Islands community.
Taisacan said his budget request reflects a significant increase in costs for transportation, supplies, equipment, and other operational needs. These rising expenses, he said, directly affect his office’s ability to conduct field operations and maintain essential services, contributing to the total amount reflected in his proposal.
The mayor also seeks funding for upcoming trips to Alamagan, Pagan, and Agrihan, which, he said, are essential for delivering services, conducting assessments, and providing support to residents of the remote islands.
He proposed three budget scenarios in accordance with guidance from the Office of Management and Budget. The first scenario reflects 100% of the budget request. The second scenario includes an austerity measure, specifically a 10-hour reduction in work hours. The third scenario proposes a 10% cut in the budget.
Taisacan reiterated that his request “represents the comprehensive funding necessary for his office to fulfill its mission, maintain operational readiness, and continue providing essential services with integrity and accountability.”
Most residents of the Northern Islands relocated to Saipan following the 1981 eruption of Mount Pagan. Today, only about seven individuals reside in the Northern Islands. In 2022, 185 Northern Islands voters participated in the general election.
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.
