(Press Release) — The 20th Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Youth Congress extends its sincere gratitude to the 24th Northern Marianas Commonwealth Legislature for its unanimous action to override the governor’s veto of Senate Bill 24-04, which is now Public Law 24-29.
The measure, authored by Sen. Manny Gregory T. Castro of Saipan, originated in the Youth Congress. It advances indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian language education in the Commonwealth, strengthening curriculum requirements within the Public School System, expanding access to language instruction, and providing for the certification and equitable compensation of Chamorro and Carolinian language educators — an essential step toward preserving the CNMI’s cultural heritage and identity.
The measure was vetoed last January by Gov. David M. Apatang, who cited conflicts with provisions already specified in Article XV of the CNMI Constitution. However, the Senate and the House of Representatives overrode the veto with the affirmative two-thirds vote of each chamber, ensuring the legislation’s enactment.
This achievement is especially significant as it marks the first time in seven years that legislation originating from the Youth Congress has become law, underscoring the growing influence and importance of youth participation in the legislative process.
The foundation of Public Law 24-29 can be traced to Youth Congress Bill 18-02, sponsored by then-Speaker Cielo Long of Tinian Jr.-Sr. High School, and reintroduced as Youth Congress Bill 19-01 by Youth Sen. Ayden Sean C. Yumul of Grace Christian Academy, reflecting years of persistent advocacy and commitment to cultural preservation.
“The enactment of this legislation is a deeply meaningful milestone for the youth of our Commonwealth,” said Yumul. “What began as a proposal rooted in our shared responsibility to preserve and revitalize our indigenous languages has now become law. I am sincerely grateful to the Legislature for recognizing the importance of this measure. This law ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to learn, appreciate, and carry forward the Chamorro and Carolinian languages. It is a powerful testament that when young people engage in the democratic process, their voices can truly make a difference.”
Yumul also thanked his predecessor, Long, for her foresight in ensuring the youth of tomorrow are given an adequate education in the islands’ native languages.
Vinnie Juan Q. Sablan, speaker of the 20th CNMI Youth Congress, added, “We commend the CNMI Legislature for its leadership and unwavering support in enacting this law. This accomplishment reflects a strong partnership between our youth and our elected officials. More importantly, it affirms that young people’s voices in the Commonwealth matter. This law not only strengthens our education system but also reinforces our collective commitment to preserving the cultural identity that defines us as a people.”
The 20th CNMI Youth Congress remains committed to advancing policies that empower young people, promote civic engagement, and preserve the Commonwealth’s rich cultural heritage.
