The vote was 8-0 with Sen. Frank Q. Cruz, R-Tinian, abstaining as both nominees are related to him.
The confirmation followed the public hearing presided by Sen. Juan M. Ayuyu, Ind.-Rota, on Friday morning during which senators heard testimonies in favor of the nominees.
Ayuyu said Cruz should work with the other members of the MPLT board of trustees to look into the concerns of homesteaders about the costly requirement in obtaining a homestead lot, which is the immediate construction of a house.
Regarding Quichocho’s appointment, CDA Executive Director Manny Sablan said the nominee “is young and energetic and…I see his commitment.”
Senate Floor Leader P. Reyes, R-Saipan, was emotional when he commented on Quichocho’s nomination.
“I remember that time when you were still a baby and I had to carry you because you were crying,” said Reyes.
Now the baby was in front of him and ready to serve the people of the commonwealth, Reyes said.
“I am proud of you,” he added.
Sen. Jovita M. Taimanao, Ind.-Rota, noted Quichocho’s “impressive educational background.”
Asked what inspired him to accept the nomination, Quichocho replied: “I was really excited to have the chance to help the CNMI economy. I also missed these islands. I’ve been in the U.S. too long.”
Quichocho has a bachelor of science degree in micro/molecular biology from Portland State University. He also studied history and anthropology as well as political science and writing.
