By Emmanuel T. Erediano
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Variety News Staff
GOVERNOR David M. Apatang and the board members of the American Red Cross-NMI Chapter were joined on Wednesday by ARC Pacific Regional Chief Executive Officer Molly Schmidt and Regional Disaster Officer Renise Haili Bayne in proclaiming March 2026 as American Red Cross Month.
ARC-NMI Chapter Board Chairman Josh Wise read the proclamation before the governor signed it in the presence of CNMI Red Cross volunteers and Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services personnel led by DFEMS Commissioner Juan A. Pua, as well as some police officers led by Department of Public Safety Commissioner Anthony Macaranas.
Also present were ARC-NMI Chapter Board Vice Chairman Brent Deleon Guerrero, board members Tania David, Les Ogumoro, and Vince Castro, and Department of the Interior-Office of Insular Affairs field representative Harry C. Blanco.
In his proclamation, the governor emphasized that volunteers and staff of ARC in the CNMI play a vital role in strengthening the community by providing shelter, food, comfort, and recovery assistance to those affected by disasters; empowering individuals and families with life-saving skills such as first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and emergency preparedness; and helping ensure that the community is ready to respond to emergencies.
He also said that the dedication, compassion, and service of local volunteers reflect the spirit of humanitarianism that unites the CNMI people and demonstrates the strength of their shared commitment to helping one another.
During the month of March, the governor said, the Commonwealth recognizes and honors the volunteers, donors, partners, and staff who make the mission of ARC possible and whose acts of kindness bring hope and relief to those in need.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
