Jia Nicdao
MARIANAS High School senior Jia Ross Bajao Nicdao was sworn in as youth senator to serve the remaining term of former Youth Congress Vice Speaker Peaches Fiona Bayot, who resigned after graduating from MHS last year.
Nicdao, who is the MHS Student Council president, took her oath of office on Oct. 19, 2024 after the Youth Congress adopted a committee report recommending that Nicdao be sworn in.
Youth Congress Speaker Vinnie Juan Sablan, who represents Kagman High School, administered the oath of office.
In her remarks as a duly sworn-in youth senator, Nicdao said, “I stand with great humility and a heart full of purpose. This role is more than a title; it’s a responsibility to champion change through resilience, dedication, and unity.”
The new youth senator, whose track record of extracurricular accomplishments in high school includes being a state mock trial champion, said her fellow youth’s zest for life will be her inspiration.
“I am continuously inspired by the energy and spirit of my peers. They are the heartbeat of change, relentlessly pursuing a world where their voices are heard, their health and welfare protected, and their dreams nurtured. Our young minds are not merely students; they are architects of their future, building lives that stretch far beyond the classroom walls,” Nicdao said.
She finished second in the previous Youth Congress election at MHS.
According to Public Law 17-22, when a seat is vacated, the next highest vote-getter automatically assumes the seat, provided the student is willing to serve the balance of the term and still meets the requirements to hold office in the Youth Congress.
In her remarks, Nicdao thanked her parents, family and friends, saying, “I stand here today because of all of you. Your belief in me has been my greatest motivation, and together, I know we can achieve great things. The road ahead is not without its obstacles, but with resilience, teamwork, and a shared vision, we will forge a path toward a brighter future.”
Sablan congratulated Nicdao on behalf of the other youth senators. He said he is hoping that they will continue to make a positive impact on their peers and their community.
Still vacant is the seat that used to be occupied by Mickyiel Cabrera, who resigned over the summer after graduating from Saipan Southern High School.
Sablan has designated Youth Sen. Ayden Sean C. Yumul of Grace Christian Academy as acting vice speaker.
The other youth senators are Mount Carmel School’s Maili Ilareyo’l Borja Peter, floor leader; Tinian Middle School and Tinian High School’s Ysabella Nikonia Rita Villagomez Palacios, legislative secretary; Dr. Rita H. Inos Jr./Sr. High School’s Aden Chonne Hocog Calvo of Rota; and Saipan International School’s Soledad Maria Tudela Sablan.
