Franklin Babauta
SPECIAL Assistant for Homeland Security and Emergency Management Franklin Babauta on Monday submitted his resignation letter to Gov. David M. Apatang. His resignation takes effect on Oct. 3, 2025.
Babauta, who has been serving at HSEM since February 2023, did not give a reason for his resignation but thanked the governor for his support “during my medical leave.”
In his letter, Babauta outlined his accomplishments, including the closing of over $3 million in unobligated and unfunded liabilities related to abandoned Covid-19 and typhoon supplies within 90 days of assuming leadership at the agency, which allowed the NMI government to properly demobilize federal grants.
He also highlighted priorities he established for HSEM’s long-term emergency planning, which continue to guide the agency to the present.
“I leave with confidence that the HSEM team will carry forward these priorities and continue to advance the agency’s mission,” Babauta wrote to the governor.
He expressed his sincere gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Commonwealth alongside Gov. David M. Apatang and the late Gov. Arnold I. Palacios.
On Tuesday, the governor appointed former Department of Public Safety Commissioner Clement R. Bermudes as special assistant for HSEM.
In his appointment letter to Bermudes, the governor said he and Lt. Gov. Dennis James Mendiola are confident that Bermudes is qualified and will be an asset to the CNMI.
“Your willingness to serve our people is most appreciated,” the governor said.
In Jan. 2024, Governor Palacios asked Bermudes to resign as DPS chief.
The then-Northern Marianas College’s dean of academic programs, Bermudes was appointed by Palacios as acting DPS commissioner on March 6, 2023. His nomination was confirmed by the Senate on April 20, 2023.
