By Emmanuel T. Erediano
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Variety News Staff
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has signed off on Gov. David M. Apatang’s request for a major disaster declaration in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds announced in a video from Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, Saipan time.
She said the governor’s request is now on its way to President Donald Trump’s desk. King-Hinds provided the update just minutes after speaking with Mullin by phone on Tuesday.
In his request, the governor asked the federal government for individual assistance, public assistance — including direct federal assistance — and hazard mitigation for the CNMI. He also requested a 100% federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance under the Public Assistance Program.
King-Hinds said she knows residents have been waiting for relief through a major disaster declaration following the typhoon.
Once she returns home — hopefully within the next couple of days after the President signs the declaration — she said she will meet with residents on the ground to assess what additional assistance the CNMI may need before returning to Washington, D.C.
“CNMI, I know it’s been a long week. People have been lining up at gas stations, waiting for power and water, and people are exhausted after enduring days of being battered by the typhoon. I want to ask for your continued patience. Please be kind to one another, show each other good deeds, and keep working together to build our community stronger,” King-Hinds said.
“Let’s give love and grace to our first responders and support our governor as he works through this situation given our very limited resources,” she added.
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.
