Manglona, R-Rota, said the island’s proximity to Guam makes it an ideal location for residents and tourists alike to visit the center.
“Rota has worked hard to build and brand itself as an eco-tourism destination. It would therefore seem fitting to situate a Marine National Monument Visitor Center on the island of Rota,” said Manglona in a letter to CNMI Congressman Gregorio C. Sablan. “Rota’s proximity to Guam would also allow Guam residents and visitors quick and easy access to the center.”
He added that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is presently working on a habitat conservation plan to address the needs of the many endangered species on Rota.
“Perhaps, a Marine National Monument Visitor Center on Rota could help mitigate the impact the conservation plan will have on our island,” the senator said.
In the same letter, Manglona reiterated his call to explore the possibility of establishing a regular ferry service between Guam and the CNMI.
Manglona said the inter-island ferry service would ease the economic burden that Rota residents experience in commuting and transporting goods to their island.
He vowed to get more data about the feasibility of the project so that the idea can be formally put forth in the U.S. Congress.
