With only Sen. Juan M. Ayuyu, Ind.-Rota, absent, all the eight senators voted to confirm Tomokane for her third four-year term on the CDA board.
Chaired by Sen. Frank Q. Cruz, R-Tinian, the Senate Committee on Executive Appointment and Government Investigation said in its report that after deliberation and based on the overall assessment of her credentials, “we are convinced beyond a doubt that Tomokane possesses the necessary qualifications and leadership skills necessary to serve in the board of directors.”
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial reappointed Tomokane last Oct. 4.
The Senate also held a public hearing on two of Fitial’s nominees, Jerry P. Crisostimo and Nacrina A. Barcinas, to the Retirement Fund board.
Former Rep. Joseph N. Camacho expressed support for Crisostimo and Barcinas. He said Crisostimo is a good nominee, has all the qualifications to continue to serve on the Fund’s board and has exhibited an “enormous” amount of effort in pushing for the lawsuit to compel the CNMI government pay the Fund.
Fund Administrator Richard Villagomez said Crisostimo has served as the board’s vice chairman and finance and investment committee chairman.
Crisotimio has the ability to put things in simple terms so everyone can understand the situation, Villagomez said.
Senate Vice President Jude U. Hofschneider, R-Tinian, said Crisostimo showed dedication to the Fund.
Senate Floor Leader Pete P. Reyes, R-Saipan, said he supported Crisostimo when he was first appointed to the Fund board and continues to support him.
Reyes told Barcinas that he also supports her nomination.
Sen. Ralph DLG. Torres, R-Saipan, congratulated Crisostimo and Barcinas.
He said he knows that Crisostimo has been working closely with the Senate in addressing the Fund’s problems.
Sen. Jovita M. Taimanao, Ind.-Rota, said she reviewed Crisostimo’s background and she was impressed.
