“It is our goal to improve the quality of life in the community,” said the task force’s prime mover, Saipan and Northern Islands Municipal Council Chairman Ramon B. Camacho.
The new members were sworn in by Supreme Court Chief Justice Miguel S. Demapan at the multi-purpose center in Susupe.
Camacho said community members should get involved in the program and not rely completely with the government.
“Let’s take that responsibility,” he added.
Rep. Rafael S. Demapan, Covenant-Saipan, said because of the task force, his constituents in Precinct 2 are now more aware and alert of their responsibility to protect their own neighborhood.
“The task force has made a great impact on our life and I think every village should establish their own group,” said Precinct 5 Rep. Fredrick P. Deleon Guerrero, Ind.-Saipan.
Saipan Republican Rep. Ray N. Yumul of Precinct 3 also witnessed the oath taking ceremony.
Department of Public Safety Commissioner Santiago F. Tudela said his department has been collaborating with the task force.
“They help DPS in the anti-crime campaign. We are in partnership with the task force,” he told Variety.
Frank Camacho, Neighborhood Watch Inc. chairman and Dandan block captain, said their program creates a sense of community and puts “neighbors back in the neighborhood.”
The task force, he said, also aims to instill a greater sense of security in the villages.
Sgt. Vicente H. Sablan, the task force chairman, said since the creation of the organization in 2006 they have been gathering ideas to strengthen further their programs.
Saipan Mayor Donald G. Flores was not able to attend the ceremony, but in his message he described the task force as “an example of what a community can do to help the government and the people of the commonwealth.”
“It is indeed heartwarming to know that there are others in our community who really care and are more than willing to do something positive and productive for the betterment of our people,” he said.
The mayor said the task force provides added protection and security to the community which allows the people to live their daily lives more peacefully.
“You will be our eyes and ears in our effort to reduce and eliminate crimes and other social problems plaguing our community. You are making a huge difference and we thank you for stepping forward,” he said.
The task force thanked the following donors for their support: Tan Holdings, Docomo, Island Apparel, Sabalu Market, Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, House Minority Leader Diego T. Benavente, R-Saipan, Rep. Raymond D. Palacios, Covenant-Saipan, Rep. Eliceo D. Cabrera, R-Saipan, Rep. Joseph M. Palacios, R-Saipan, Car Quest, Ta Bun Kuy, Mobil Oil and Saipan Ice.
Koblerville task force block captain Rose T. Ada Hocog was the mistress of ceremony while Gus Kaipat led the singing of the U.S. and CNMI anthems.
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