The Commonwealth has lost one of its most beloved and influential leaders.
Diego Tenorio Benavente, whose public service spanned more than two decades, built a career defined not by political ambition but by a quiet, unwavering devotion to the people he served. Benavente was known for his calm demeanor—a steady presence in moments of strain—but beneath that gentle exterior was a deep well of passion and an uncommon breadth of expertise. His command of governance, regional affairs, banking and finance, politics, environment and fisheries made him one of the Commonwealth’s most versatile and respected public figures. Even after stepping away from elected office, he did not step away from service. In retirement, he turned his focus to public education advocacy, investing his time and energy into the future of the Commonwealth’s children with the same diligence that marked every chapter of his career.
He began his public life in 1990, winning a seat in the 7th House of Representatives in a decisive vote of confidence from the people. In his first term, he chaired the federal and foreign relations committee; served as vice chair for natural resources; and sat on the commerce and tourism, judiciary and governmental operations, and ways and means committees.
His competence—and his steady, approachable manner—quickly earned wide respect.
Voters returned him to the House for ten more years. In 1992, his colleagues elected him House vice speaker, and he would go on to lead the chamber as speaker during the 9th, 10th, and 11th CNMI Legislatures.
In 2002, he ran for lieutenant governor alongside his friend, former Washington Representative Juan N. Babauta. Their ticket won the 2001 election with a historic mandate. Benavente served one term, then returned to the legislature, where he represented the people during the 16th and 17th Legislatures, serving until his retirement in 2011.
On Wednesday, Nov. 20, surrounded by family at his As Lito home, Benavente passed away peacefully. He was 66.
Last time together
Just a day before his passing, Benavente shared coffee and stories with former Gov. Babauta and close friends—Sen. Paul A. Manglona, former Public Works Secretary Juan “Liling” S. Reyes, and former Public Safety Deputy Commissioner Frank Duenas—at his residence in As Lito.
They gathered from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., laughing over old memories, the kind of lighthearted morning that belies how quickly life can change.
Babauta recalled, “He called me and said he wanted a cup of McDonald’s coffee.”
The group—affectionately known as the “McDonald’s Boys,” a name born from their weekly breakfasts at McDonald’s in Middle Road—decided not to wait until their next scheduled meet-up on Friday. When Benavente asked for coffee, they brought him not only his cup, but egg burritos, apple pie, and cookies.
At Benavente’s table, they laughed, told stories, and shared a morning that, without them knowing it, would be their last together.
A loss for the CNMI
“His passing is a great profound loss for me as a personal friend and to the entire CNMI,” Babauta said. “He loved public service and in my opinion, he did serve the people with honor and distinction.”
Manglona, who had planned to see Benavente again for their Friday gathering, said Benavente told him he no longer had the energy to join. So they brought breakfast to him instead.
“I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of former Lt. Governor Diego Benavente,” Manglona said. “Serving alongside him in the legislature was a privilege… Diego was a good man who consistently put the needs of our Commonwealth first.”
Public education’s tribute
After retiring from elected office, Benavente devoted significant time to the Public School System between 2012 and 2016, strengthening relations with the executive and legislative branches and supporting parental engagement, student advocacy, and public education funding.
Acting Commissioner of Education Jacqueline P. Che, Commissioner Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho, and Board of Education Chairman Aschumar Kodep Ogumoro-Uludong issued a joint statement:
“The late Diego Tenorio Benavente devoted his life to the service of the Commonwealth, offering his passion, strength, and unwavering sense of duty to every office he held. As lieutenant governor, House speaker, elected lawmaker, and champion for public education, he embodied principled leadership and a profound commitment to the people he served.
His legacy is deeply woven into the history of the Public School System. From its formative years as an independent institution to the transformative era spanning the 2010s through 2016, his steady guidance helped shape reforms that strengthened the PSS and enhanced its ability to serve the stakeholders of public education—our students and families in the Northern Marianas.”
Heartfelt respect
Gov. David M. Apatang and Lt. Gov. Dennis James C. Mendiola issued a joint statement honoring Benavente’s legacy:
“With deep sorrow and heartfelt respect, the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor announces the passing of the Honorable Diego Tenorio Benavente… His departure is a profound loss for the Commonwealth and for all who were touched by his steady leadership, his humility, and his lifelong devotion to the people of the Marianas.”
For more than three decades, Diego Benavente served the people of the CNMI with distinction—as a member of the House of Representatives, three-term Speaker of the House, Lieutenant Governor, and a respected community and regional leader. Guided by integrity and principled leadership, he championed education, environmental stewardship, and responsible governance. His unwavering dedication and love for the Marianas shaped the Commonwealth through pivotal moments, leaving a legacy that will inspire and endure for generations.
Governor Apatang, joined by Lieutenant Governor Mendiola, extends their deepest condolences to Mrs. Vicky Benavente, their children, grandchildren, and the entire Benavente family. “Diego
served our Commonwealth with honor and heart. He was a mentor, a steady voice of reason, and a friend. The people of the Marianas are grateful for his lifetime of service, and we join his family in prayer and remembrance during this difficult time.”
On behalf of the people of Guam
Guam Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio also released a statement:
“On behalf of the people of Guam, we offer our deepest condolences to the family of former Lieutenant Governor Diego Benavente and to the people of the CNMI. Diego was not only a respected leader in the Pacific region but also a longtime friend. Over the years, our paths crossed often through our work, our families, and our shared hope for a stronger Marianas. Even in his hardest moments, he chose to be present with the people he loved, surrounded by the island that shaped him. My heart is with his wife, Vicky, and the entire Benavente family as they honor a man whose life was rooted in loyalty, kindness, and a genuine devotion to his community.”
“Lieutenant Governor Benavente’s legacy lives in the relationships he built and the steady leadership he offered the CNMI. He carried himself with sincerity and an easy warmth that made people feel seen and heard. These past months have clearly shown his character. He chose family, faith, and the island he cherished, reminding all of us what it means to live a full life. We extend our sympathy to the Benavente family and stand with the people of the CNMI as they remember a leader who gave so much of himself and did it with heart,” added Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio.”
Leon Guerrero is a personal friend of the late Diego T. Benavente.
A true leader
CNMI Republican Party President Patrick M. Cepeda offered a personal tribute, calling Nov. 20 “a sad day for the CNMI.”
“Uncle Diego was more than a public servant,” he said. “He was a man of humility, wisdom, and strength… His leadership, character, and heart touched countless lives.”
Cepeda reflected on his own time with Benavente: “The lessons, wisdom, and strength he shared with me are things I will carry for the rest of my life.”
“Rest in peace, Uncle Diego,” he added. “You will be dearly missed, and forever respected.”
Unwavering commitment
Rep. Blas Jonathan Attao also issued the following statement: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear Lt. Governor Diego Benavente—a devoted public servant, an exceptional leader, and a beloved family man. Diego was not only a committed servant to the people of the CNMI but also my first cousin and the beloved uncle of Edmund Sablan Villagomez.”
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Vicky, his children, the Tenorio- Benavente and the Seman-Iriarte families.”
“Lt. Governor Benavente dedicated his life to serving the CNMI with integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment. Before becoming Lt. Governor, he served six terms as a legislator and was Speaker of the House for much of that time. Throughout his years of service, Diego
exemplified true leadership—always putting community first, listening attentively, and standing firmly for the issues that would improve the lives of families throughout the Commonwealth.”
“His remarkable legacy continues to inspire progress for all. Even as he faced a difficult diagnosis, Diego’s grace and strength never wavered. His choice to spend his final months in Saipan, surrounded by family, friends, and the community he loved so deeply, speaks volumes about his character and devotion.”
“In a recent address, he reminded us that the CNMI’s strength lies “not in our size, but in our unity,” a powerful reflection of the values he lived by.As we mourn this tremendous loss, we honor Diego’s life, his service, and his enduring values. Our prayers are with his family and loved ones during this time. May we all find comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will continue to inspire us and guide our Commonwealth forward.”
“You will be profoundly missed.”
