THE Office of the Governor on Monday evening announced the passing of Ross H. Manglona, the resident executive of the Office of Indigenous Affairs.
“We have just learned about the untimely passing of Ross Manglona,” Gov. Arnold I. Palacios said in a statement. “Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang and I mourn the loss of a friend and a dedicated public servant who tirelessly championed the cause of protecting and preserving indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian culture and heritage,” the governor added.
Manglona, 47, was appointed to the position in February of this year.
Prior to serving as IAO resident executive, Manglona was the director of the 500 Sails Cultural Maritime Training Center, and director of continuing education at the Northern Marianas Technical Institute.
He was also a former director of Northern Marianas College-Cooperative Research Extension and Education Services.
“In Ross’s passing, we not only lost a valuable member of our cabinet but also a steadfast advocate for our people,” Palacios said. “His contributions at NMC, NMTech, and the Office of Indigenous Affairs, as well as his unwavering commitment to preserving the rich tapestry of the Chamorro and Carolinian heritage, are unparalleled. Let us honor his memory by continuing the important work he started.”
Rep. Ed Propst took to social media to express his sentiments regarding Manglona.
“[Ross was] always a fighter and a champion for the people and good governance…. You will be truly missed and never ever forgotten. Thank you for your friendship and love,” Propst wrote on Facebook.
“He was such a wonderful person,” Propst told Variety.
As of press time Monday evening, Variety was trying to get more information about Manglona’s death. This is a developing story.
Ross Manglona
