Commissioner of Education Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho, Magistrate Judge Heather Kennedy, and USCIS Officer Brian Choi pose for a photo with the 12 newly sworn in U.S. citizens on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the United States Courthouse in Gualo Rai.
District Court for the NMI photo
IN a heartfelt address to newly naturalized American citizens at the United States Courthouse on Monday, Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho — the commissioner of education and a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel — shared a message of reflection, pride, and purpose.
Drawing from his own journey, Camacho encouraged the new citizens to embrace their American identity with both gratitude and a sense of responsibility.
“Becoming a U.S. citizen is not the end of a journey, but the beginning of a new one. It’s a chance to build, to serve, and to shape the future — not only for oneself but for generations to come,” he said.
“Ask yourself the ‘why’ question,” he added. “Why now? What can I contribute to society as a U.S. citizen?”
Camacho said citizenship is not just a status — it’s also a commitment to uphold the values of democracy, service, and unity.
Camacho drew on a car’s mirrors and windshield as a metaphor during his remarks.
“The rearview mirror,” he said, “reminds us to reflect on our past and the journey that brought us here. The sideview mirrors symbolize awareness — of our surroundings, our communities, and the challenges we must navigate. But the windshield, wide and clear, represents the future: full of opportunity, hope, and direction.”
Motion granted
Brian Choi, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer, made the motion in court to accept the 12 applicants as new citizens. Presiding over the special court session, District Court for the NMI Magistrate Judge Heather Kennedy granted Choi’s motion.
The newly sworn in U.S. citizens are Narciso Soliman Banigan, Krissie Famy Eichelberger, Gilbert Papa Fauni, Esselmina Copino Leong, Cesar Libut, Rowena Mendoza Libut, Abigail Almo Mangalinao, Mary Ann Deleon Manglona, Dioscora Zerna Mithnoy, Susan Sy Pajarillaga, Wilfredo Dangalan Percil, and Rogelio Miguel Reyes.